Bug Identifier
Termite Alate (Swarmers)
Community identification

Termite Alate (Swarmers)

Isoptera

Order & Family
Order: Blattodea, Family: Termitidae/Rhinotermitidae
Size
Approximately 0.25 to 0.5 inches (including wings)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in soil, wooden structures, or flying in groups during mating seasons; often enter homes through small cracks.

Diet & Feeding

Cellulose-based materials such as wood, leaf litter, soil, and paper products.

Behavior Patterns

Emerge in large numbers to mate and start new colonies; they shed their wings shortly after landing and seek moisture and wood.

Risks & Benefits

Potential major structural damage to homes and buildings; ecologically beneficial for decomposing dead wood and recycling nutrients into the soil.