Flying Termites? Don’t Panic – Here’s What You Need to Know By Friendly Pest Control Melbourne
Seeing a swarm of flying insects around your house can be alarming, especially if they’re making their way indoors. If these tiny winged creatures have you wondering “Are these flying termites?” then this article is for you. We’ll delve into everything you need to know about flying termites, from identification to prevention and treatment with Friendly Pest Control Melbourne services.
Understanding Flying Termites (Alates)
Flying termites, also known as alates, are the reproductive caste of a termite colony. Their primary purpose is to leave their established nest, find a mate, and start a new colony. These swarmers typically emerge during warm, humid weather, often coinciding with spring and summer months in Melbourne.
Identifying Flying Termites
While flying termites can cause a stir, they’re not the ones directly causing damage to your property. Here’s how to identify them and differentiate them from flying ants:
- Size and Body: Flying termites are generally light gold or beige in color, with two straight antennae and two large, translucent wings of equal size. They have a thick, segmented body with only two distinct parts – the head and thorax.
- Wings: Unlike flying ants, which have two sets of wings with the front pair noticeably larger, flying termites have four wings of equal size.
- Swarming Behavior: Flying termites often swarm in large numbers, particularly around light sources at night. This swarming behavior is a key indicator of their presence.
Why Do You See Flying Termites?
The presence of flying termites around your Melbourne home signifies two potential dangers:
- Existing Termite Infestation: If you see flying termites indoors, it could be a sign of an existing termite colony already present within your house. This requires immediate action from a professional Pest Control Melbourne company to locate and eradicate the colony before significant damage occurs.
- Risk of Future Infestation: Even if you find flying termites outdoors, their presence indicates a nearby termite colony. Since these swarmers can travel up to 100 meters from their original nest, your property could be at risk of a future infestation.
Don’t Panic! Here’s What To Do
While seeing flying termites can be unsettling, it’s important to stay calm and take action:
- Turn Off Lights: If you see flying termites swarming around outdoor lights, turn them off to discourage them from gathering near your house.
- Open Doors and Windows: If flying termites have made their way indoors, open doors and windows to allow them to find their way out naturally.
- Avoid Sprays: Don’t waste time or money on spraying flying termites. They are temporary visitors, and the focus should be on the hidden colony they originated from.
- Call a Pest Control Professional (Melbourne): This is the most crucial step. A professional Pest Control Melbourne company can conduct a thorough inspection to locate any existing termite colonies and recommend the most effective treatment plan to safeguard your property.
Benefits of Hiring Friendly Pest Control Melbourne Services
Hiring a qualified Pest Control Melbourne company offers several advantages:
- Expertise and Experience: Professionals have the knowledge and experience to identify the specific termite species and recommend the most suitable treatment method.
- Advanced Techniques: Pest control companies utilize advanced inspection tools like thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint hidden termite activity.
- Safe and Effective Treatments: Professionals use safe and effective termite treatments that comply with Australian regulations, ensuring the safety of your family and pets.
- Long-Term Protection: A comprehensive termite control plan from a professional Pest Control Melbourne company offers long-term protection for your property.
Common Termite Control Methods in Melbourne
Several effective termite control methods are used by Friendly Pest Control Melbourne, depending on the specific situation:
- Chemical Barrier Treatment: A liquid termiticide is applied around the perimeter of your property to create a barrier that deters and eliminates termites trying to enter.
- Termite Baiting Systems: These eco-friendly stations contain bait that attracts termites. The feeding termites then transfer the bait back to the colony, ultimately eliminating the queen and the entire colony.
- Physical Termite Barriers: These barriers can be installed around the foundation of your home to physically prevent termite entry.
Preventing Future Termite Problems
By implementing some preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of future termite infestations:
- Reduce Moisture: Address any moisture issues around your foundation and eliminate sources of standing water near your home.
- Maintain a Dry Basement: Ensure proper ventilation in your basement or crawlspace to prevent moisture build-up.
- Regular Inspections: Schedule regular termite inspections by Friendly Pest Control Melbourne for early detection and prevention.
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Seal any cracks or gaps in your foundation and around pipes to prevent termite entry points.
- Minimize Wood Contact: Minimize any wood-to-soil contact around your property. This includes removing any wooden structures directly touching the foundation and maintaining a gap between mulch and your house.
- Store Firewood Seasoned: Store firewood away from your house and ensure it’s properly seasoned to reduce moisture content.
- Keep Gutters Clean: Regularly clean your gutters and ensure proper drainage to prevent moisture accumulation near your foundation.
Peace of Mind with Friendly Pest Control Melbourne
While flying termites themselves don’t directly damage your home, they serve as a crucial warning sign. By acting quickly and contacting Friendly Pest Control Melbourne, you can effectively address the root cause – the hidden termite colony. A professional inspection and treatment plan will provide peace of mind and safeguard your valuable property from potential termite damage.
Conclusion
Flying termites might be a cause for concern, but with the right information and prompt action, you can effectively address the threat. Remember, Friendly Pest Control Melbourne are your best line of defense against damaging termite infestations. Don’t hesitate to contact Friendly Pest Control Melbourne for a thorough inspection and a customized termite control plan to safeguard your Melbourne home.
By following the tips and advice in this article, you can take control of the situation and ensure your property remains termite-free. Remember, early detection and professional intervention are key to protecting your investment and achieving long-lasting peace of mind.