Bug Identifier
Drywood Termite (Swarmer/Alate)
Community identification

Drywood Termite (Swarmer/Alate)

Incisitermes snyderi (Likely representative species)

Order & Family
Order: Blattodea, Family: Kalotermitidae
Size
1/4 to 3/8 inches (7 to 10 mm) including wings
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found inside sound, dry wood such as structural timbers, furniture, and dead tree limbs; they do not require contact with soil.

Diet & Feeding

Cellulose found in dry wood, including softwood and hardwood lumber, flooring, and furniture.

Behavior Patterns

Alates (winged reproductives) emerge in swarms to mate and start new colonies; they often shed their wings shortly after landing. They are nocturnal and are attracted to light.

Risks & Benefits

Significant risk of structural damage to homes and wooden property. Benefit to the ecosystem by breaking down dead wood in forests, but considered a major pest in human environments.