Knowledgebase

Insects in a Sunroom #874172

Asked June 22, 2024, 11:57 AM EDT

I have a population of insects that cluster in a corner of a sunroom. An extensive garden is directly outside where I see trails of small black ants making their way toward the attached deck. However, many of the insects in the sunroom, while resembling black ants, have wings. Can you identify those in the sunroom? Thank you

Anne Arundel County Maryland

Expert Response

From the photo they appear to be some type of small black wasps. 

With the time of year and heat there is a lot of insect activity right now so it is not surprising that you are seeing some insects in your sunroom.

Wasps at this size typically do not sting, and are only inside accidentally. They are likely flying in whenever a door or window is opened. Some of these wasps may be pollinators and/or parasitic wasps which provide beneficial services for your garden (good news!)

If you have too many indoors and they are difficult to corral outside, you could vacuum them up or use sticky traps. 


Thank you very much. My concern was that they may have been some stage in the life cycle of termites.
Thanks again.
Ray Walsh 

On Jun 25, 2024, at 10:56 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied June 25, 2024, 11:02 AM EDT

From what we can see in the photo there does not appear to be any winged termites, but we cannot say for sure.

Winged termites are common this time of year. These termites are called swarmers or alates. These winged termites fly in large numbers to disperse and initiate new colonies. Alates are not a danger to structures; most die of dehydration if they fly inside.

I would recommend taking a look at our extension page on termites: https://extension.umd.edu/resource/termites/. Feel free to send us zoomed in clearer photos if you want us to confirm/deny a termite identification. If you have further concerns a professional pest control company should be able to identify insect specimens in person for you. 

As we tell all homeowners it is good to be aware of signs of termite infestation like the presence of dirt tunnels or "shelter tubes", soil packed in cracks or crevices, cracking or sagging floors, dark or blistering wood paneling, and/or blistering or peeling paint on wood. For further information please see the UMD Extension termite page linked above.

If you have any concerns about termites we recommend contacting a professional pest control company. Companies that are members of the Maryland Pest Control Association and the National Pest Management Association have access to all current treatment practices.


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