Spring 2026 swarm season is here. Learn which termite species are swarming in Orange County, LA County, and the Inland Empire right now, what swarming termites look like, and what to do if you see them in or around your home.
Termite Swarm Season Is Here
Every spring and early summer, termite colonies across Southern California release winged reproductives — called swarmers or alates — to start new colonies. If you've seen small winged insects emerging from your walls, wood trim, or soil, you may be witnessing a termite swarm.
This guide explains what's happening, which species are active right now, and what you should do if you see swarmers in or near your home.
What Is a Termite Swarm?
Swarming is a natural part of the termite reproductive cycle. When a colony matures (typically after 3–5 years), it produces hundreds to thousands of winged reproductives. These swarmers emerge in mass flights, typically triggered by warm temperatures and humidity — conditions that arrive in Southern California between February and June each year.
Swarmers do not eat wood. Their only purpose is to mate and start new colonies. Most swarmers die within hours or days. But if a male and female pair successfully mate and find suitable wood to colonize, they become the king and queen of a new colony that will spend years — sometimes decades — silently destroying wood in your home.
Species Active in 2026
Western Drywood Termites (*Incisitermes minor*)
The most common species in Orange County and coastal Los Angeles County. Western drywood termites swarm in late summer and fall (August–November), but activity can begin as early as April in warm years. They enter homes through exposed wood — attic vents, fascia boards, and window frames — and don't require soil contact.
Desert Drywood Termites (*Marginitermes hubbardi*)
More common in Inland Empire cities like Riverside, Ontario, and Fontana. They swarm in spring, typically March through June, and can be confused with flying ants. Look for the equal-length wings and straight antennae that distinguish termites from ants.
Western Subterranean Termites (*Reticulitermes hesperus*)
Subterranean termites swarm earlier — February through May in most Southern California locations. They emerge from the soil and require moisture, so they're most common in areas with poor drainage, sprinkler overspray, or soil-to-wood contact along the foundation.
How to Tell Termites from Flying Ants
This is one of the most common questions we get during swarm season. Here's the quick guide:
| Feature | Termites | Flying Ants |
|---|---|---|
| Wings | Equal length, all four the same | Front wings longer than back wings |
| Antennae | Straight, bead-like | Elbowed |
| Waist | Broad, no pinch | Pinched waist |
| Wing texture | Fragile, easily shed | Tougher, stay attached |
What to Do If You See Swarmers
Inside your home: This almost certainly means you have an active colony somewhere in the structure. Swarmers emerging indoors are following light toward windows — they originated from wood inside your walls, attic, or subfloor. Call for a free inspection.
Outside your home: Less urgent, but worth monitoring. Swarmers landing on your exterior wood or entering through gaps could be establishing new colonies. Have your home inspected if you see this repeatedly.
In your yard: Subterranean termite swarmers in your yard, especially near your foundation, warrant a subterranean termite inspection and evaluation of soil-to-wood contact around the perimeter.
What Not to Do
- Don't spray the swarmers — killing swarmers with insecticide doesn't address the colony. It's the equivalent of swatting mosquitoes instead of draining standing water.
- Don't assume it's over when the swarm ends — the colony continues regardless of the swarm event.
- Don't wait months to get an inspection — the sooner a colony is found, the less structural damage occurs.
Schedule a Free Inspection
If you've seen swarmers in or near your home, now is the right time to schedule a free termite inspection. Our licensed inspectors serve Orange County, LA County, the Inland Empire, and Riverside County. Call (714) 240-2800 or schedule online.