Published 2026-10-26 · Waxahachie pest guide
In short
Swarmers indoors point to a nearby colony. Save a few, check for mud tubes and schedule an inspection.
What a swarm is
Mature subterranean termite colonies send out winged reproductives to start new colonies. They swarm briefly, drop their wings and die if they cannot reach soil. A swarm inside usually means the colony is in or under the structure.
Termite or flying ant?
| Termite | Flying ant | |
|---|---|---|
| Waist | Straight, thick | Pinched |
| Antennae | Straight | Elbowed |
| Wings | Two pairs, equal length | Front pair longer |
What to do
- Collect a few in a bag or jar for identification.
- Look for mud tubes on the slab edge and in the garage.
- Do not spray the area heavily; it can hide where they came from.
- Schedule a termite inspection.
Questions
Does a swarm mean my house is damaged?
Not necessarily, but it means termites are close and an inspection is needed.
Will swarmers eat wood?
No. Swarmers do not feed on wood; the workers in the colony do.
