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No, certain termites, known as alates, have wings and can fly. Alates are reproductive termites responsible for forming new colonies. These winged termites are referred to as “swarmers” due to their mass flight behavior. Termite swarms are usually triggered by rain and humidity. Swarms are most prevalent in warmer weather, often in spring, varying by species and location. After mating, swarmers shed their wings to begin new colonies. This ensures the best chance of survival. While not all termites fly, flight is crucial for reproduction. Subterranean and drywood termite swarmers leave nests to mate and establish new colonies.

Termites primarily “bite” wood and other cellulose-based materials as their food source, causing significant damage to structures. While soldier termites can technically bite humans, they generally do so only if handled. Overall, termites do not typically bite people or animals; their focus is on consuming cellulose for sustenance.

Unfortunately, termite activity may not be detected until they have been active for months or even years. This is why it’s so important to have your home inspected by a professional. If you do not see any of the signs outlined above, do not assume your home is safe from termites. Call Fox Pest Control today for a free inspection. Our Termite Defense Plan is the best defense for your home and family.

Termites vary in size depending on the species and their role in the colony. Generally, worker termites, which make up the majority of the colony, are smaller, typically around 1/4 inch. However, reproductive termites, such as alates (winged adults), can be larger, around 3/8 to ½ inch long, depending on the species. The queen is the largest of all the termites and can be several inches long.

Termites primarily feed on cellulose, which is found in wood and other plant materials. They are particularly drawn to damp or decaying wood, but they can also consume paper, cardboard, and certain fabrics containing cellulose. Termites have specialized digestive systems that allow them to break down cellulose with the help of symbiotic microorganisms living in their guts. This ability to digest cellulose is what enables termites to thrive on a diet of wood and other cellulose-rich materials.

Landscape mulches, including wood chip mulch, create a moist environment ideal for termites. However, mulch itself doesn’t attract or cause termites. Termites, especially subterranean ones, explore for food in a wide radius from their underground nests, and moisture encourages their activity. Research from the University of Maryland suggests that while termites may be found in various types of mulch, they don’t heavily feed on organic wood-based mulches. Instead, they’re likely to stay and feed in areas with hospitable conditions, such as beneath mulch, when they encounter it. Therefore, while mulch can enhance termite activity, it doesn’t necessarily attract them from surrounding areas.

A few tips for landscaping with mulch: Make sure the mulch is kept several inches away from the foundation of the house. Avoid covering windowsills or allowing mulch to touch house siding. Use gravel between flowerbeds and exterior walls to make it harder for termites to gain entry while keeping an eye out for the pests’ mud tubes. If termites are known to be in your area, monitor wood chip mulch for any signs of activity. Call Fox Pest Control today for a free inspection and to learn more about how we defend against termites.

You can find yourself dealing with termites because of a combination of environmental factors and the availability of food sources. They thrive in moist environments and are attracted to wood and other cellulose-based materials. Improper drainage, wood-to-soil contact, and cracks or gaps in a building’s foundation can provide entry points for termites. Additionally, storing firewood or lumber near a structure can attract termites to the area.