When winged swarmers are found inside the home, it's a good indication termites have taken up residency. Peak swarming for subterranean termites occurs from January through May in Northeast Florida and southeast Georgia. Subterranean termites are the most destructive and common termite in the region. Many homeowners may be fooled by thinking their homes are termite proof because they avoided using wood in contact with the ground. Although subterranean termites nest in the soil and easily attack wood touching the ground, they also can build mud tubes 50 to 60 feet long to connect their nests to wood that doesn't necessarily touch the ground.
Termites remain hidden within wood and are difficult to detect.
Subterranean termites give themselves away by the presence of winged swarmers, mud tubes and wood damage. Winged swarmers emerge from colonies during daylight hours as spring temperatures arrive. Mating occurs during these flights and new colonies are formed. Winged termites are often confused with flying ants. Swarmers have a thick waist, straight antennae and a pair of long equal-length wings that break off easily.