After a termite colony reaches a certain population level, usually more than 10,000 subterranean winged, reproductive termites, “SWARMERS” are produced and leave the colony in a “swarm.” A swarm is a mixed group of roughly 50% male and 50% reproductive females which leave the nest at the same time. Usually this occurs in a short period of 5-45 minutes. Swarming is usually triggered by a rain in the Spring along with warming temperatures and lengthening days. Often this typically occurs usually around dusk or dawn. Large colonies may release swarmers in several pulse-like groups over two or more days when conditions are right.
The queen can produce roughly 1,000 eggs per day by her fourth year of life.
Swarmers fly upward at first and may be attracted to light.
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