What you need to know about termite swarming in Florida

As a Florida based business we know some things are just a part of life in the sunshine state. For instance, tropical storms, lightning, sharks, and alligators are all things Floridians have learned to live with. However, there is one more thing that should be added to that list: termites. Termites are silent destroyers that will literally eat your home or business, all while you are tending to your daily duties. Thankfully, your Florida pest control experts at Superior Spray are here to help you protect your property from termites and their damage. One tell-tale sign of termites is swarming. In this article we’ll give you the facts on termite swarming so you can be aware if a problem arises on your property.

Across the U.S., property damage due to termites averages a staggering $5 billion per year according to the National Pest Management Association. Sadly, Florida residents face the highest risk of a termite infestation out of all 50 states.

In cool, dry climates, termites typically have a “swarming season” once a year when temperatures and humidity levels rise. Each type of termite (drywood, subterranean, etc.) has its own preferred swarming season.Unfortunately, due to Florida’s almost constant high heat and humidity levels, swarming season is essentially year-round. It is nearly impossible for property owners who lack professional pest control training to determine which type of termite is causing problems on their property. If you see termite swarming, or damage you need to contact the experts at Superior Spray.

It’s much easier to stop an infestation before it occurs, or in the early stages – such as right after swarming. Keep an eye out for signs of termites, such as:



• Mud tubes leading to your property
• Wood that is soft, darkened, or appears blistered
• The presence of small piles of debris that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds
• Fallen termite wings near doors or window sills

Knowing the type of termites you may encounter will make identifying them easier. Learn the differences between different termite species below.

Formosan Subterranean: The most aggressive and destructive wood-destroying termite species. They are prolific in Florida’s tropical and subtropical climates. Formosan termites feed endlessly on lumber, utility poles, and wooden structures. They travel between their nest and feeding locations using mud tubes. 

Asian Subterranean: Considered the most damaging pests in the world, Asian Subterranean Termites also build mud tubes for travel. However, they are indiscriminate about the types of structures they choose to destroy. Asian termites not only eat wood but also cardboard, paper and fabric. In fact, they will tunnel through materials such as plastic, styrofoam and rubber, to get to a desired food source. In other words, they will eat and destroy anything.

Eastern Subterranean: As the most common type of termite in America, the Eastern Subterranean Termite infests wooden structures in – you guessed it – the eastern United States. This species of termite prefers to eat the internal sections of wood. Damages done by eastern subterranean termites can be particularly costly to repair. 

West Indian Drywood: Lumber, furniture, cabinets, softwoods, and hardwoods are all potential food choices for the West Indian drywood termite. However, they usually prefer smaller furniture items. They tend to travel from one place to another on household items, such as picture frames. 

Florida Dampwood: Florida property owners are commonly plagued by these termites because they prefer tropical areas. They prefer to infest wood-to-soil, exposed roofs, wooden siding, wooden decorations, or any damp wood. The Florida dampwood termite enjoys areas that frequently experience water-to-wood contact, whether it comes from sprinkler exposure or rainfall.

Termites in Florida are particularly destructive because there are more opportunities for them to reproduce. Superior Spray Service, Inc., is proud to be one of the leading pest control companies in the state of Florida. Our team of termite certified pest control operators are always ready to serve you. If you are seeing signs of termite swarming or damage in central or northwest Florida please contact us online or call 833-862-0700. 

We are proud to offer indoor and outdoor pest control services to clients in Lakeland, Orlando, Tampa, Milton, Pace, Pensacola, Destin and the surrounding areas.