Subterranean Termite Alate (Swarmer)

Natural Habitat

Found in soil and within structural wood of buildings. They live in underground colonies and travel through mud tubes to find food.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on cellulose, which is found in wood, paper, cardboard, and various plant materials.

Behavior Patterns

The winged individuals (alates) emerge in large 'swarms' during the spring to mate and establish new colonies. After a short flight, they shed their wings, find a mate, and burrow back into the ground.

Risks & Benefits

They pose a significant risk to humans by causing severe structural damage to wooden buildings. In the ecosystem, they are beneficial decomposers that break down dead wood and recycle nutrients back into the soil.

Identified on: 4/4/2026