Winged Termite (Swarmer)

Underground in soil near moisture, typically nested in decaying wood or structural lumber.

Cellulose material, including wood, leaf litter, and paper products.

Swarmers emerge in large numbers during the spring to find mates and establish new colonies; they are often mistaken for flying ants but have straight antennae and equal-sized wings.

Benefits the ecosystem by breaking down dead wood and aerating soil; however, they pose a significant risk to human structures by causing structural damage to wooden buildings.