Alates, or swarmers, measure about 5/16 inch (14-15mm) in length, including their wings. Their bodies range from pale yellow to brownish-yellow, and they possess translucent wings densely covered with small hairs. Formosan termite swarmers are often mistaken for flying ants. Key differences include:
Formosan termites thrive in mildly temperate climates, up to 35 degrees north latitude in the United States. They are prevalent in several southern states, including Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
Once Formosan termites infest a structure, they are difficult to control. A mature colony can consume about 31 grams (over 1 ounce) of wood daily. At this rate, they can entirely consume one foot of a 2×4 wooden board in 25 days, leading to severe structural damage within six months. Beyond buildings, Formosan termites infest living trees and shrubs, utility poles, landscape timbers, wooden railroad trusses, and even boats. They are also known to chew through telephone and electric cable insulation, causing costly damage and power outages in urban areas.
If you suspect a termite infestation, it’s crucial to seek professional assistance. Island Environmental offers free termite inspections. Their technicians assess homes for signs of termites and recommend appropriate Termite Control programs. They also provide termite prevention programs to protect your home from potential damage.
This information is sourced from Island Environmental’s website.