Identifying Flying Termites
The three most common types of flying termites in San Diego are drywood termites, Western subterranean termites, and Formosan subterranean termites. Size and color can help identify the species of termite. When presented with winged termites, one of each species, the smallest winged termites are Western subterranean termites, drywood termites are slightly larger and broader, while Formosan subterranean termites are significantly larger than the others. However, unless you have one of each termite species to compare side-by-side, size may not be the best way to identify winged termites. Instead, consider color. The bodies of Western subterranean termites with wings are uniformly dark brown to black. Drywood termites with wings have orange-brown heads and dark brown to black abdomens. The bodies of Formosan subterranean termites are almost entirely orange.
Other Insects that Look Like Flying Termites
Season Tracker · Flying termitesSan Diego, CA
Flying termite swarm season in San Diego
San Diego hosts three termite species — drywood, Western subterranean, and Formosan subterranean — each with its own swarm window. This tracker shows when flying termites are most likely to appear, so you know what to expect before and after treatment. Taller bars mean heavier activity.
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Peak: Apr–May & Aug–Sep, when subterranean and drywood termites swarm in overlapping waves
Peak Apr–May, Aug–SepHigh Mar, Jun–Jul, OctLow Jan–Feb, Nov–Dec
Thrasher Pest Control is Quality-Pro certified, in the top 3 to 4 percent of the industry, serving San Diego County. Act before the peak.
Scouting Report · San Diego, CA
Flying termites in San Diego — three species, one swarm
San Diego hosts three distinct termite species that all produce flying reproductives (alates), and they respond to completely different treatments. Telling them apart — and separating them from look-alike insects — is the critical first step before any control decision.
1Damages wood
Formosan Subterranean Termite
IDAlmost entirely orange body — significantly larger than either drywood or Western subterranean termites; swarms are notably massive in number.
WhereSoil within three feet of the foundation; may also attack from above-ground carton nests in walls or attics.
NoteDescribed as highly destructive and exceedingly difficult to fully exterminate. Most homeowners who have dealt with a Formosan infestation learn to recognize the swarm on sight — contact a pest control professional immediately if you suspect this species.
2Damages wood
Western Subterranean Termite
IDUniformly dark brown to black body — the smallest of the three winged termite species in San Diego.
WhereSoil along the home perimeter; feeds on fence posts, mulch, buried wood debris, and dead tree roots — often erupting from soil on warm days after rain.
NoteFumigation does not affect this species; a soil perimeter treatment or baiting system is required. A swarm erupting more than ten feet from the house may indicate a yard infestation rather than a structural one, but warrants professional evaluation.
3Damages wood
Drywood Termite
IDOrange-brown head with a dark brown to black abdomen — slightly larger and broader than Western subterranean termites.
WhereDry wood throughout the structure — attic framing, wall studs, window frames; colonies enter through holes no larger than a pinhead.
NoteA single structure often harbors multiple unrelated drywood colonies in different areas, which is why whole-structure fumigation is typically recommended over spot treatment. Fumigation has no residual effect — new colonies can establish after tenting.
4Low concern
Flying Ant / Webspinner / Flying Beetle (Look-alikes)
IDFlying ants have a pinched waist and elbowed antennae — key differences from termites, which have straight antennae and a broad, uniform waist.
WhereAround outdoor lighting at night; near open doors and windows where they may drift indoors.
NoteSwarming insects other than termites are common in San Diego and are frequently mistaken for alates. Capture a specimen without crushing it and have a pest control professional confirm the species before treating.
Thrasher Pest Control is Quality-Pro certified, in the top 3 to 4 percent of the industry, serving San Diego County. Identify first, then treat.
Where are You Seeing Flying Termites?
The location of the termite swarm is an important consideration in determining if the flying termites are cause for worry. Termites are not strong flyers. They have long fluttery wings and sail with the breeze. Flying termites can come from anywhere in a one-mile radius–fences, tree stumps, sheds, neighbor’s homes, firewood, etc. Inside the house, finding one, two, or even a dozen winged termites does not mean you have an active termite infestation. These insects could have blown in through an open door or loose window screen. If you do find 50 or more winged termites inside your house (usually on a windowsill) this may signal an active infestation and is cause for concern. Call your pest control company. Either drywood termites or subterranean termites may swarm inside a house. The origin of the infestation can be difficult to locate. Winged termites exit the colony through a hole no larger than a pinhead. Again, your pest control company is your best guide. Outside, flying termites often congregate around outdoor lighting at night. Winged termites near an outdoor light are a sign of a nearby infestation, but not necessarily an infestation on your property. However, if you see termites erupting from the soil within three feet of your house, this may signal an active infestation of subterranean termites. Call your pest control company.Subterranean termites emerging and taking flight.
