Subterranean Termite (Alate/Swarmer)
Scientific Name: Reticulitermes flavipes
Order & Family: Blattodea (Order), Rhinotermitidae (Family)
Size: Approximately 1/4 to 3/8 inch (6 to 10 mm) including wings
Natural Habitat
Found in soil and moist wood structures within the ground. Swarmers appear indoors or outdoors near light sources.
Diet & Feeding
Cellulose, primarily from dead wood, leaf litter, and wooden structures in homes.
Behavior Patterns
Wings are used for a brief mating flight called 'swarming.' After landing, they shed their wings, find a mate, and burrow into the ground to start a new colony.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: High risk of significant structural damage to homes by hollowing out internal wood. Benefits: In nature, they are critical decomposers that turn dead wood into humus.
Identified on: 4/16/2026