The presence of flying termites is not just a nuisance but a significant threat to properties. While not directly consuming wood, these termites can cause substantial damage and financial losses through their offspring. They lead to an average annual loss of billions of US dollars, a staggering figure underscoring the urgent need to address this issue. These losses include the cost of repairing termite damage, the decrease in property value, and the potential loss of rental income for property owners.
But what are flying termites? The flying termite, also known as a winged termite, is a category of termites with reproductive ability. Understanding their behavior is crucial as these termites shed their wings once they have flown and become the king and queen of new colonies. Also, they act as scouts, searching for habitable places. Notably, they move in swarms and are usually attracted to light. They don’t prefer moist surfaces, and light drizzling can make them disappear from their habitation. In the tropics, they usually come out during the short rainy season. Signs of a flying termite infestation include discarded wings, mud tubes, and hollow-sounding wood.
How to Get Rid of Flying Termites
1. Destroy colonies around the compound
One highly effective method of combating flying termites is by destroying their colonies. This can be achieved by locating and eliminating the queen, disrupting their reproductive cycle. The process involves digging and following the trail of worker termites to the queen’s location, often found in a hardened clay pot. Once the queen is eliminated, the colony will eventually die off. By understanding this process, you can take direct action to control the termite population, empowering you to protect your property.
Another effective method of exterminating the colony is by applying boric acid. This can be done by mixing the boric acid with water to create a solution. The solution can then be sprayed or poured into the holes of the colony. The boric acid is toxic to termites and will effectively destroy the colony.
2. Close openings
You can keep off flying termites by sealing entry points. For instance, you can cover windows with wire mesh. Also, you can fill and seal the spaces under doors and between the roof and the wall; wall gaps should also be filled.
To close the gaps, you can use silicon caulking. During evenings of rainy weather, when flying termites come out, you should close the doors and windows to prevent their entrance.
3. Spray pest control chemicals
You can use many types of pest control chemicals to exterminate flying termites. These are available in different outlets, and you should carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using them for effectiveness and safety. It’s important to wear protective clothing, such as gloves and a mask, when handling these chemicals. Additionally, ensure that the area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of fumes.
Notably, instead of applying the pest control chemicals alone, you can hire professional pest control companies to work on your behalf. These companies have the expertise and equipment to effectively eliminate termite colonies. They also provide a guarantee for their services, giving you peace of mind that the problem will be resolved.
4. Use Traps
Some simple traps include using water in basins with a source of light and bug zappers. Flying termites are usually attracted to light. If water basins are placed under the light, the termites will fall in them as they seek surfaces to land on.
Once their wings get wet, they can’t fly and will be trapped. A single twenty-litter basin can trap as many as five hundred to one thousand flying termites; Zappers attract and electrocute the termites, making them die on the spot.
Conclusion
While termites may be silent destroyers, the good news is that flying termites can be eradicated relatively cheaply compared to the potential damage they can cause. This affordability is reassuring to homeowners, property managers, and individuals concerned about termite infestations, alleviating potential financial anxieties.
Lastly, instead of exterminating flying termites alone, you can hire a professional pest control company to do the work. Working with a professional pest control company will give you peace of mind since they work professionally, guaranteeing effectiveness and safety and instilling confidence in their ability to handle the issue.
