Very small winged termites flying outside - Ask Extension
Is there any reason to worry? They fly around my food if I eat on my deck. Noticed one on my lit up cell phone inside at night - have screened windo...
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Very small winged termites flying outside #874030
Asked June 21, 2024, 8:11 AM EDT
Is there any reason to worry? They fly around my food if I eat on my deck. Noticed one on my lit up cell phone inside at night - have screened windows and window fan in another room which is on exhaust and getting air into room from outside. Have had termite tunnels in house 70 years ago. Thanks
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
Termites are very common outdoor insects, even if unseen most of the time, and swarmers (breeding individuals that have wings, since typical colony members do not) seen in the area don't necessarily pose an increased risk of home invasion if you have not been seeing swarmers regularly inside the home. (Not the odd individual that wanders in by accident, but repeated encounters with several termites.) Our linked web page about termites provides more information and links to additional resources that go into more detail about prevention options and what to do if you suspect damage. Given how long ago you last had known termite issues, the current swarming is probably not an issue. As with excluding other unwanted insects from getting indoors, just make sure that access points are as sealed as possible, such as window screening and door weather-stripping being intact if they need repair, and any gaps/cracks around exterior walls (like around pipe or cable insulation where it enters the house) are well-sealed.
Miri
Miri