Arizona’s Termite Season: When Termites Swarm and What You Need to Do Today
Arizona is one of the most active termite regions in the entire country, and every year homeowners are surprised when swarms suddenly appear around their property. Unlike other pests that slow down during temperature changes, Arizona’s subterranean termites become more active as the weather warms — and swarm season is the moment homeowners need to pay the closest attention. Understanding when termites swarm, why it happens, and what steps you should take that same day can save you thousands in future repairs.
Termite swarming typically happens when temperatures rise and the soil warms up, usually between February and early July in Arizona. During this time, reproductive termites—called “swarmers” or “alates”—leave their colony in huge groups, searching for new places to build fresh colonies. Homeowners often mistake swarmers for flying ants or harmless bugs, but a swarm is actually a major red flag that an established termite colony is already nearby. Termites don’t travel far from their nests to swarm, so when you see them, it usually means they’ve been active close to—or inside—your home for much longer than you might think.
One of the most overlooked signs of termite season is the presence of discarded wings around windowsills, sliding doors, garages, and outdoor lighting. When swarmers land, they shed their wings within minutes, leaving behind small piles that look like fish scales or translucent flakes. Many Arizona homeowners sweep these up without realizing what they indicate: termites may be looking to start a colony inside the structure of the home. Even if you never see the swarm itself, wings alone are a clear warning that swarm activity has already begun.
When swarm season arrives, the most important step homeowners can take is to act quickly. Swarmers themselves don’t cause structural damage—they’re not the workers that chew through wood—but their presence signals that workers are already active somewhere nearby, often underground or inside the walls. The sooner an inspection is completed, the easier it is to stop a colony before it spreads deeper into the home. Waiting even a few weeks can allow termites to start building new tunnels, expand their feeding areas, and cause costly hidden damage.
That’s why The Termite Division emphasizes immediate action during Arizona’s termite season. If you spot a swarm, find discarded wings, notice mud tubes, or see anything unusual near your home's foundation, it’s time to get a professional inspection. Our free termite inspections allow us to identify exactly where activity is happening, how severe it is, and what treatment is needed to protect the structure. Termite swarms can be alarming, but with fast action, proper treatment, and expert guidance, they don’t have to turn into long-term damage.
Arizona’s termite season is here every year, but homeowners who stay aware and proactive can protect their homes before colonies spread. If you’ve seen swarmers or signs of activity — even once — now is the time to get ahead of the problem. Schedule your FREE termite inspection with The Termite Division today and keep your Arizona home protected all year long.