Flying termites, sometimes referred to as “swarmers,” are the reproductive stage of the termite life cycle. They can be a real nuisance when they invade your home. However, there are several ways to get rid of them quickly and effectively. In this article, we will talk about how to get rid of flying termites so they stay gone. So, stay tuned to learn everything you need to know!
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What Do Flying Termites Look Like?
The first step in getting rid of flying termites is to identify them. These insects are about ½ an inch long and have two pairs of wings equal in size. Their bodies are pale brown or white, and they have no waistline between their abdomen and thorax. They resemble flying ants but can be easily differentiated from them by their straight antennae.
When Do Flying Termites Appear?
Flying termites usually swarm during the spring and summer months, but termites are present at all times of the year. They typically emerge from their nests around dusk and are attracted to light. So you’re likely to see them near windows or doors.
Flying termites come from existing colonies underground. The purpose of their flight is to mate and start new colonies. Once they find a suitable mate, they shed their wings and begin digging a tunnel for their colony.
How to Get Rid of Flying Termites
There are several ways to get rid of flying termites, and the approach you take will depend on the severity of the infestation and the location of the nests.
Sticky Traps
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If you only see a few flying termites, you can try to catch them with a sticky trap. These traps are available at most hardware stores and work by using a strong adhesive to trap the insects.
Boric Acid
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Another option for getting rid of flying termites is to use boric acid. Boric Acid comes from Boron, a mineral found in the environment. When flying termites ingest boric acid, it interferes with their digestive system, causing death.
To use boric acid to get rid of flying termites, mix one part boric acid with three parts water and pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture around the entrances to your home and on the exterior of the building. Be sure to avoid spraying it on plants, as it can be harmful to them.
Dish Soap Spray
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A simple way to get rid of flying termites is to make a spray out of dish soap. This spray works by suffocating the insects and causing them to drown.
To make the dish soap spray, mix one tablespoon of dish soap with one quart of water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and apply it to areas where you’ve seen flying termites. Be sure to avoid getting the spray in your eyes or mouth.
Diatomaceous Earth
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- Mechanical Killer – Unlike many traditional chemical insecticides, insects cannot build an immunity to diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural product made up of the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae. When flying termites come into contact with diatomaceous earth, it cuts through their exoskeletons, and they die of dehydration.
To use diatomaceous earth to get rid of flying termites, sprinkle it around the perimeter of your home and along any cracks or crevices where the insects may enter. You can also put it in a garden hose and spray it around the foundation of your home.
Peppermint Spray
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Peppermint oil is a natural insecticide that is effective at killing flying termites.
To make a peppermint spray, mix two tablespoons of peppermint oil with a quart of water. Spray the mixture around the entrances to your home and on the exterior of the building.
Orange Oil
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Orange oil is another natural insecticide that can be used to get rid of flying termites.
To make an orange oil spray, mix one part orange oil with three parts water and pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
Nematodes
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Nematodes are tiny parasitic worms that can control flying termites. When the nematodes come into contact with the insects, they enter their bodies and release bacteria that kill them.
To use nematodes to get rid of flying termites, mix one part nematodes with five parts water and pour the mixture into a garden hose. Spray the nematodes around the perimeter of your home and along any cracks or crevices where the insects may enter.
Bug Zappers
If you have a severe infestation of flying termites, your best option may be to use a bug zapper. Bug zappers work by electrocuting the insects.
When using a bug zapper to get rid of flying termites, place it in an area where the insects are likely to be found. The best place to put a bug zapper is near a light, as flying termites are attracted to light.
Insecticide
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If you have a more severe flying termite problem, you may need to use an insecticide. There are many different types of insecticides available, so be sure to ask a professional at your local hardware store for advice on which one will work best in your situation.
You can apply insecticide in several ways, including spraying it on the exterior of your home, injecting it into the soil around your home, or fogging your home’s interior.
It is important to note that insecticides should only be used as a last resort, as they can be harmful to both people and pets.
Cardboard Traps
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You can make your flying termite trap using a piece of cardboard. Simply wet the cardboard and place it near an area where you’ve seen flying termites. The insects will be attracted to the moisture and crawl inside the cardboard to get to it. Once they’re inside, they will be unable to get out.
Once you’ve caught flying termites in a trap, you can either kill them with spray or release them far away from your home.
Change Your Mulch
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If you use plant-based mulch around your home, you may be attracting flying termites. Termites are attracted to the cellulose in mulch, so if you change to a mulch that doesn’t contain cellulose, you may be able to get rid of flying termites.
There are many different types of non-cellulose mulch available, including rubber mulch, stone mulch, and bark mulch.
Seal Off Your Home
Do what you can to prevent flying termites from entering your home. Make sure you seal all cracks and crevices and that there is no wood-to-soil contact around your foundation.
Keep firewood and other potential food sources away from your home. Flying termites are attracted to wood, so if you keep your home clean and free of potential food sources, you may be able to get rid of flying termites.
Final Thoughts
Flying termites are not dangerous to humans, but they can damage or destroy your home when left untreated. The fastest way to get rid of flying termites is to use a bug zapper, which works by electrocuting the insects. The best way to get rid of a major infestation in your house is to use an insecticide.
If you have a flying termite problem, there are many different ways to get rid of them. Try one or more of the methods listed above to see which works best for you. Flying termites are a nuisance, but with some effort, you can get rid of them and get back to life as usual.
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