What They Are, How to Treat Them, and Why You Shouldn’t Go It Alone

Have you spotted small piles of, what look like, sawdust near baseboards or window frames? Ever found paper like wings scattered around the residence after a warm night? The answer could be drywood termites. In Florida, these pests are a growing concern — and at Infinite Pest Solutions, we’re seeing demand for control climb every year.

This guide covers everything you need to know: what drywood termites actually are, how they’re treated, what you can do to prevent them, and why handling it yourself is a risk not worth taking.

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What Are Drywood Termites?

Drywood termites are a species of termite that lives entirely within the wood they infest — no soil contact required. Unlike subterranean termites, which need moisture and travel through the ground to reach a structure, drywood termites set up colonies directly inside dry wood: your wall studs, door frames, window frames, attic trusses, furniture, and more.

One of the most important things to understand about drywood termites is how they compare to their subterranean cousins:

They move slower — but they spread wider. Subterranean termites typically operate as one large colony moving through soil. Drywood termites move more slowly through a structure, but they can establish multiple colonies in different areas of the same home simultaneously. That means while the damage may develop more gradually, you can have infestations in several locations at once without knowing it.

They don’t need moisture to survive. Drywood termites extract the water they need directly from the wood they eat, which means no leaky pipes or damp conditions are required. That said, moisture-damaged wood — from a slow roof leak, plumbing issue, or poor drainage — can make wood softer and more attractive to them, so addressing moisture problems in and around your home still matters.

The signs are subtle until they’re not. The most common indicators of a drywood termite infestation include:

• Frass — tiny, pellet-shaped droppings they kick out of the wood (also called kick-outs)
• Exit holes — small, round holes in wood surfaces where frass is pushed out
• Swarmers and discarded wings — reproductive termites that emerge in warm months to start new colonies
• Hollow-sounding wood – when tapped

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A Real Look at How Bad It Can Get

To understand why drywood termites deserve serious attention, consider a home we recently treated. The homeowner had noticed swarmers and discarded wings on the second floor. When we came out for a free inspection, we found:

Exit holes and frass in window frames, door frames, baseboards, and closet door frames throughout the second floor — and mirroring activity on the first floor on the same side of the house. The built-in entertainment center in the living room showed significant activity. Upstairs in the attic, we found widespread infestation, which was riddled with so many kick-out holes it looked like a piece of swiss cheese.

The homeowner chose our liquid no-tent treatment over fumigation. During the treatment, our technician discovered additional infestation throughout the first floor attic as well — areas that showed no obvious signs from inside the home. Since treatment began, we’ve returned to re-treat the entertainment center, where the disturbance caused the termites to create new kick-out holes as they moved within the wood.

This is what a drywood termite infestation actually looks like. It’s rarely just one spot. It spreads quietly, through multiple areas, over time — and by the time the signs are obvious, the infestation is already well-established.

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How to Treat Drywood Termites

When it comes to treatment, there are two main options: liquid no-tent treatment and fumigation (tenting). Both are effective — but they work differently, and the right choice depends on the extent of the infestation and your situation.

Liquid No-Tent Treatment

This is the method we most commonly recommend, and it’s grown significantly in demand. Here’s how it works: our licensed technician treats the wood directly including door and window frames, and exposed wood in the attic. The key advantage of no-tent treatment is residual protection for years to come. We also offer a monthly warranty option with no-tent treatments, giving homeowners ongoing peace of mind.

No-tent treatment is also considerably less invasive and less expensive than fumigation. You don’t have to leave your home. You don’t have to move furniture or appliances. Life keeps going.

Fumigation (Tenting)

Fumigation involves sealing the entire structure under a tent and introducing a treatment that penetrates every inch of the home, killing termites on contact. It’s highly effective for the termites that are present— especially for severe, widespread infestations — and we offer tenting services in our Southwest Florida locations.

The trade-off is the inconvenience and cost. You’ll need to vacate the home and stay in a hotel until the structure is cleared — typically a few days. Large appliances like refrigerators, along with furniture and other belongings, need to be relocated or properly prepared. It requires significant planning and expense.

Critically, fumigation provides no residual protection. Once the treatment is complete, the structure has no ongoing defense against new swarmers. There is no warranty component the way there is with liquid treatment.

Our honest take: For most homeowners, the liquid no-tent treatment is the better option — it’s more affordable, far less disruptive, and actually offers better long-term protection through its residual and warranty coverage. Fumigation is the right call for severe, whole-structure infestations where the scope and extent of the problem warrants it.

At Infinite Pest Solutions, we inspect every property for free and give you a clear, honest recommendation based on what we actually find — not what’s easiest or most profitable for us.

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How to Get Rid of Drywood Termites Without Tenting

The good news is that tenting is not your only option. Our whole-home liquid no-tent treatment is specifically designed to eliminate drywood termites from an entire structure without the disruption and cost of fumigation.

Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Free inspection — we assess the full structure, identifying all areas of activity
2. Customized treatment plan — based on the inspection, we map out the full scope of treatment needed
3. Targeted application — we treat appropriately for the specific areas identified
4. Follow-up — we return as needed to re-treat active areas and monitor progress
5. Warranty coverage — ongoing monthly warranty protection to keep your home covered

We offer this service at both our Southwest Florida locations (Fort Myers, Naples, Marco Island, Cape Coral) and our Central Florida locations (Orlando, Clermont, Apopka).

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Why You Shouldn’t Try to Treat Drywood Termites Yourself

We understand the appeal of handling it yourself. You can find products online, and it feels like it should be straightforward. But DIY drywood termite treatment consistently falls short — and here’s why.

The product isn’t the problem — the application is. Professional-grade products are effective when used correctly. But homeowners who get their hands on over-the-counter versions typically make the same critical mistakes:

• Spraying broadly instead of treating the galleries. Drywood termites live inside the wood. Spraying the surface does almost nothing. Treatment has to be injected directly into the galleries — the tunnels termites have carved inside the wood — to reach the colony.
• Overtreating the wrong areas while undertreating the right ones. Without knowing what to look for or where to look, it’s easy to apply a lot of product in the wrong places and miss the actual infestation entirely.
• Missing infested areas altogether. This is perhaps the biggest issue. A trained inspector knows where drywood termites hide — attic trusses, hatch frames, inside wall voids, within built-in cabinetry. Homeowners typically treat what they can see and leave the rest untouched, allowing the infestation to continue and expand.

A licensed technician comes out, does a thorough free inspection, identifies every area of concern, and then applies EPA-registered solutions to exactly the right places in exactly the right way. That’s not something a can from the hardware store can replicate.

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How to Prevent Drywood Termites in Florida

Prevention is always better — and cheaper — than treatment. Here’s what we recommend:

Get an annual termite inspection. This is the single most important thing you can do. A professional can spot early signs of activity — frass, exit holes, subtle wood damage — long before an infestation becomes serious. Catching it early means simpler, less expensive treatment.

Do preventative drywood treatments. For homes in Florida, we strongly recommend proactive treatment of high-risk areas: attic spaces, window frames, door frames. This is far more cost-effective than waiting for an infestation to develop.

Address moisture and leaky pipes. While drywood termites don’t require moisture to survive, wood that has been softened or damaged by moisture is more attractive and easier for them to establish in. Fixing leaky pipes, addressing roof leaks, and keeping moisture away from the structure reduces your overall vulnerability.

Seal entry points. Cracks, gaps around window frames, and exposed wood on the exterior of the home give swarmers easy access. Regular maintenance and sealing these areas helps reduce the risk of new colonies getting started.

Florida’s climate — warm, humid, and with long active seasons for swarmers — makes drywood termite pressure a year-round reality. Proactive prevention is simply part of responsible homeownership here.

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Ready for a Free Inspection?

Whether you’ve spotted the signs of drywood termites or just want peace of mind, Infinite Pest Solutions offers free inspections at residential and commercial properties throughout Southwest Florida and Central Florida. We’ll assess the full structure, tell you exactly what we find, and give you a clear plan to address it — no pressure, no guesswork. 

Get a free inspection today!

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island
• Sanibel Island

What They Are, When They Swarm, and What You Should Actually Do

If you’ve lived in Florida long enough, you already know—there’s a time of year when it feels like love bugs are everywhere.

They’re covering your car, stuck to your pool cage, flying in pairs, and somehow always ending up right in your personal space.

At Infinite Pest Solutions, we get questions about love bugs every single year. And here’s the truth most companies won’t tell you:

They’re not dangerous—but they are incredibly annoying.

Let’s break down everything you need to know (and what to actually do about them).

Quick Answers About Love Bugs in Florida

• Love bugs are harmless flying insects that do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases.
• Florida’s largest love bug swarms usually occur from late April through May, with a smaller wave in the fall.
• Love bugs are attracted to light-colored surfaces, vehicle exhaust, asphalt, and moist vegetation.
• While treatment options exist, controlling love bugs is difficult because they are highly mobile flying insects with unpredictable landing patterns.
• One-time exterior treatments may help reduce activity temporarily, but no treatment can guarantee complete elimination during heavy swarm seasons.

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What Are Love Bugs?

Love bugs are small black flies with a red/orange thorax that are most commonly seen flying in pairs.

That’s not random—it’s because they’re actively mating, which is how they got their name. 

From our experience in the field, they’re not a pest in the traditional sense like ants, roaches, or termites. They don’t invade homes or build nests inside your structure.

They’re purely a seasonal nuisance pest.

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When Is Love Bug Season in Florida?

Florida typically experiences two love bug seasons each year:

Primary Swarm Season

• Late April through May
• Largest swarms of the year

Secondary Swarm Season

• Smaller wave during the fall

In our experience, the spring swarms are by far the heaviest and generate the most homeowner complaints.

Where Did Love Bugs Come From?

There’s a long-standing myth that love bugs were created in a lab—but that’s not true.

Love bugs are naturally occurring insects that thrive in warm, humid environments like Florida.

They reproduce quickly and are especially drawn to:

• Light-colored surfaces (especially white)
  
• UV-reflected exhaust from cars and machinery
  
• Asphalt and roadways
  
• Moist, decaying vegetation
  

This is why you’ll see them:

• Swarming highways
  
• Covering parked cars
  
• Gathering on pool cages and exterior walls
  

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Why Are Love Bugs Stuck Together?

This is probably the #1 thing people ask.

Love bugs stay attached because they are actively mating, and they can remain connected for 2–3 days at a time.

During that time:

• The male and female fly together
  
• The female will lay eggs shortly after
  
• Their reproduction cycle moves fast
  

That’s why populations explode so quickly during peak season.

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Do Love Bugs Bite?

No—love bugs do NOT bite.

They:

• Don’t sting
  
• Don’t transmit diseases
  
• Don’t harm humans or pets
  

They’re harmless—but overwhelming.

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What Do Love Bugs Eat?

Love bugs feed on:

• Nectar
  
• Organic, decaying plant material
  

They actually play a role in breaking down vegetation, which is beneficial to the environment.

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Do Love Bugs Eat Mosquitoes?

No—love bugs do not eat mosquitoes.

They are not predators and won’t help reduce mosquito populations.

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How to Get Rid of Love Bugs Around Your Home

While you may not be able to completely eliminate love bugs during peak season, there are several things homeowners can do to reduce the nuisance. At Infinite Pest Solutions, we can perform one-time exterior treatments to help reduce love bug activity around areas where they commonly gather. However, because love bugs are constantly moving and it is nearly impossible to predict exactly where large swarms will land, no treatment can guarantee complete elimination during peak swarm season. Environmental factors like weather conditions, nearby vegetation, migration patterns, and the intensity of the swarm all play a role in treatment effectiveness. While treatments may help temporarily reduce activity, homeowners should still expect to see some level of love bug presence during Florida’s busiest swarm periods.

Wash Vehicles Quickly

Love bugs can damage automotive paint if left on too long due to their acidic body composition after decomposition.

Park in a Garage When Possible

Keeping vehicles protected during heavy swarms can help reduce buildup.

Keep Outdoor Areas Clean

Reducing moist, decaying vegetation may help limit breeding areas nearby.

Understand What Attracts Them

Love bugs are often attracted to:

• White surfaces
• Bright outdoor areas
• Warm pavement
• Vehicle exhaust

While love bugs are difficult to control due to their highly mobile flying behavior, treatment options are available in certain situations.

Should You Worry About Love Bugs?

In our professional opinion:

No—love bugs are not something homeowners should panic about.

They are:

• Harmless
• Temporary
• Seasonal

But they absolutely can become frustrating during heavy swarm periods, especially for Florida homeowners who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Sometimes the best approach is:

• Managing expectations
• Reducing attractants
• Protecting vehicles and outdoor spaces
• Allowing the seasonal cycle to pass

And honestly?

Sometimes a swatter still comes in handy.

Conclusion

Love bugs are one of Florida’s most recognizable seasonal nuisance pests.

While they may look overwhelming during swarm season, the good news is they are harmless and temporary.

Understanding:

• When they appear
• What attracts them
• What treatment options realistically exist

can help homeowners better prepare for Florida’s busiest love bug months.

If you’re dealing with overwhelming outdoor insect activity and want professional guidance, Infinite Pest Solutions can help evaluate your situation and discuss realistic treatment options for your property.

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island
• Sanibel Island

If you’ve dealt with ants before, you’ve probably grabbed a can of spray from the store and hoped for the best. When the ants kept coming back, you may have wondered what a professional service actually does differently — and whether it’s worth it. Here’s an honest, detailed breakdown of what a true professional ant control service looks like from start to finish.

It Starts with an Inspection — Not a Spray Can

The single most important step in any professional ant control service happens before a single product is applied: the inspection. This is where an experienced technician identifies exactly what type of ant you’re dealing with, where they’re entering the home, and where they’re likely nesting.

This matters more than most homeowners realize. Different ant species require entirely different treatment approaches. Treating for fire ants the same way you’d treat big headed ants, for example, won’t just be ineffective — it can actually make the problem harder to resolve. A proper inspection allows us to build a solution that’s tailored to your specific situation rather than applying a one-size-fits-all treatment.

Real Case Study

A homeowner called us concerned about piles of dirt appearing along their interior baseboards in the living room. At first glance, it may seem like a minor nuisance — but those dirt piles were a significant indicator of something larger happening outside. 

Our inspection of the exterior revealed multiple big headed ant colonies. When these type of ants begin pushing through baseboards and into the living space, it typically signals an extensive infestation — not just a few scouts wandering in. We started treatment immediately, treating both the interior and heavily on the exterior where the colonies were active.

Given the severity, we also scheduled a 30-day follow-up to retreat if necessary. The homeowner enrolled in an every-other-month recurring service plan, which brought the infestation fully under control — and now keeps it that way, with free re-services included in the plan.

Why Your Store-bought Spray isn’t Solving the Problem

This is one of the most common conversations we have with new customers. They’ve sprayed, they’ve seen dead ants, and then a week later the ants are back. The frustration is completely understandable — but the reason it keeps happening comes down to how over-the-counter products actually work.

Most consumer ant sprays are repellents. They’ll kill the ants that come into direct contact with the product — the ones you can see. What they cannot do is reach the colony. And the colony is the entire problem.

Ant colonies are highly organized. Worker ants — the ones foraging through your kitchen or trailing along your baseboards — are not the source. They’re doing a job: collecting resources to support the colony and, most importantly, to protect the queen. The queen’s sole purpose is reproduction, and the entire colony structure exists to keep her safe and active. As long as the queen is untouched, the colony continues. No amount of surface-level spraying changes that.

Professional-grade treatments are designed to reach the colony itself. They work in ways that consumer products simply aren’t formulated to do — targeting the root of the infestation, not just what’s visible on the surface.

What a Professional Service Visit Actually Looks Like

At Infinite Pest Solutions, every service follows what we call our 5-star service. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

1. Before we even arrive, we will text you 20-30 minutes prior so you know we are on the way. For those with ongoing services, we also always text a few days before to alert of the scheduled service date.
2. We connect with you when we arrive and before we leave. Pest control isn’t just a transaction — we want you to feel heard, informed, and comfortable at every step.
3. We inspect before we treat. Every home is different. We don’t just apply the same solution at every property because every home has its own unique conditions and pressures.
4. We build custom solutions on-site. Based on what we find, we determine the right products, the right application points, and the right approach for your home specifically. Your garage is a part of our standard services every time.
5. We treat the exterior heavily. Our primary objective is keeping pests out of your home. The exterior is where the battle is won. Interior treatment is available and recommended on the initial visit, but it’s never forced — it’s your choice.
6. We then deweb all entryways, soffits, eaves, and windows. These are areas that are easy to overlook but are common entry and harborage points.
7. We walk you through everything at the end. Before we leave, we let you know exactly what was treated, what we found, and any recommendations for your property. We also send a full written report directly to your email — covering what we did, what we found, the products used, and any recommendations.

One-time Treatment vs. a Recurring: What Works Long-term

One of the most costly misconceptions in pest control is the idea that a single treatment permanently solves an ant problem. It may suppress the activity you’re seeing — for a while. But without ongoing maintenance, colonies rebuild, new colonies move in, and the cycle starts over.

Customers who rely on one-time treatments often end up spending more over time. Each one time service call is a new service charge, with no guarantee, no free re-services, and no continuity of care. An ongoing pest plan, by contrast, gives you scheduled protection, satisfaction guarantees, and the peace of mind that if something comes back between visits, we come back too — at no additional cost.

Consistent, recurring service is what actually keeps infestations from re-establishing. It’s not just about reacting to problems — it’s about preventing them from returning in the first place.

What Sets a Professional Company Apart

Beyond the treatment itself, the details of how a company communicates and operates matter more than most people expect. At Infinite Pest Solutions, we text customers when their service is scheduled and again 20 to 30 minutes before we arrive. It sounds like a small thing, but it’s the kind of seamless, respectful communication that we like to prioritize.

Combined with written service reports, customized treatments, and a genuine commitment to solving the root problem rather than masking it — that’s the standard you should expect from any professional ant control service.

If you’re seeing signs of an ant problem — dirt piles by baseboards, trails along walls, mounds in the yard, or activity in the kitchen — don’t wait for it to grow. The earlier we inspect and identify what’s happening, the easier and more cost-effective the solution. Reach out to Infinite Pest Solutions to schedule your inspection and get a treatment plan built around your home.

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island
• Sanibel Island

Get a Free Quote

Expert Advice from Infinite Pest Control | Serving Orlando & Southwest Florida

If you’ve ever spotted a cloud of winged insects suddenly emerging from your walls, floors, or yard — and felt your stomach drop — you’re not alone. Termite swarms are one of the most alarming things a Florida homeowner can witness. And yet, many people brush it off, assuming it’s just flying ants or a one-time event.

Here at Infinite Pest Solutions, we’ve been responding to termite swarm calls across Orlando and Southwest Florida since 2017. In that time, we’ve seen what happens when homeowners act fast — and what happens when they don’t. Spoiler: termites don’t take days off, and neither does the damage they cause.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what swarming termites look like, when termites swarm in Florida, how long termite swarms last, what to do the moment you spot one, and why acting quickly is the single most important thing you can do to protect your home.

Do Termites Swarm? What Does a Swarm Actually Mean?

Yes, absolutely, and it’s one of the clearest warning signs that a colony is active on or near your property.

Termite swarmers are the reproductive members of a termite colony. When a colony matures, it produces winged termites that fly out in large numbers to mate and establish new colonies. The swarm itself is short-lived — but what it signals is serious: there is already an established colony nearby.

Many homeowners see a swarm and breathe a sigh of relief once the insects disappear. But the swarm is the symptom, not the problem. The colony behind it is.

What Do Swarming Termites Look Like?

One of the most common questions we get — right after a panicked call — is: “Are these termites or flying ants?” It’s a fair question. Both swarm, both have wings, and in a moment of panic, they look almost identical.

Here’s the simplest way we explain it to customers: count the body sections.

• Termite swarmers have 2 distinct body segments (head and abdomen — the waist is barely visible)
• Ant swarmers have 3 distinct body segments, including a pinched, narrow waist
• Termite wings are equal in length and extend well past the body
• Ant wings are unequal — the front pair is longer than the rear pair
• Termite antennae are straight; ant antennae are elbowed

When customers text us a photo (which we always encourage), we can usually make a positive ID within minutes and get an inspection on the calendar right away. If you’re ever unsure, snap a picture and send it to us — don’t spray anything in the meantime.

When Do Termites Swarm? (And When Do Termites Swarm in Florida?)

Timing varies by species — and in Florida, you need to know both.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are the most destructive species in the state, and they’re the ones we deal with most across Orlando and Southwest Florida. Based on what we see every year on the ground, subterranean swarmers typically emerge:

• Late February through March — the early wave, often triggered by warm weather after a cool stretch
• April through May — peak swarming season for subterranean species
• Occasionally into early summer — depending on rainfall and temperature patterns

Swarms often happen after rain, on warm days, usually in the late morning or early afternoon. If you see a swarm inside your home, it almost always means the colony has breached the structure.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites follow a different calendar entirely. In Florida, drywood swarmers are most active:

• Starting in summer (June–July)
• Continuing through fall (August–October)

Drywood termites don’t need soil contact — they live directly inside wood, which makes them particularly insidious. You might see their pellets (frass) before you ever see a swarm.

Florida Tip: We’re seeing a significant increase in termite activity across the state in recent years. If you live anywhere in Florida — especially in the Orlando metro or Southwest Florida — it’s not a matter of if termites find your home, but when.

How Long Do Termite Swarms Last?

This is one of the most searched questions we see — and the answer is both reassuring and sobering.

The actual swarm event itself is brief. Most termite swarms last anywhere from 20 minutes to a few hours. Individual swarmers that end up inside your home will die on their own within a matter of hours — they’re not equipped to survive without their colony.

So in terms of how long termite swarms last visually: not long. But here’s where people make a critical mistake — they assume that because the swarmers are gone, the problem is gone.

“Termites work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. They do not sleep. Within a few hours to a couple days, new colonies can begin to establish. Waiting is never the right answer.” – Douglas Parker, Infinite Tech

We had a customer this year whose swarmer activity appeared in their mulch beds outside. We alerted them. They decided to wait. By the time they called us back, the swarmers had shed their wings and begun colonizing right there on the property. That’s how fast it can happen.

Real Cases We’ve Seen: What Termite Damage Actually Looks Like

Case 1: The Drywood Discovery — Our First No-Tent Treatment

Just last month, a customer called us about what looked like small pellets (frass) in their office and near a piece of furniture just outside the room. When we arrived, we found wings left over from a past swarm that had gone unnoticed.

The customer had already removed the furniture and taken out built-in shelving — and that’s when it got serious. Behind the shelves, termites had gotten into the wall itself.

We performed a no-tent treatment covering the attic, window and door frames, and spot-treated the wall where exit holes were present. They’re now on a monthly warranty plan — if any new spots show up anywhere in the home, we come back and treat at no additional charge.

The lesson here: had they caught the swarm when it happened, the damage might have been contained to that one piece of furniture. Ignoring wings on the floor costs more than an inspection.

Case 2: Active Subterranean Infestation — Lehigh Acres

A realtor called us to inspect a home her client was preparing to sell. What we found was one of the worst active subterranean termite jobs we’ve seen in a long time.

There were active mud tubes in multiple locations inside the home — including the attic. Subterranean termites build these mud tubes as highways between the soil and the wood they’re feeding on. When you see them, the colony isn’t new.

We installed a Sentricon system with above-ground bait stations inside and the standard exterior stations around the perimeter. At the first follow-up visit, our technician John confirmed termites were actively feeding on the bait — which means the process of eliminating the colony has already begun. We’ll continue to monitor.

Case 3: Subterranean Swarmers in the Yard — Proactive Protection

Several customers this year have called about seeing subterranean swarmers outside — in their yards, around their foundations, or near mulch beds. In a few of these cases, we went out personally, did a full interior and exterior inspection, and found no evidence of active damage inside the home.

But here’s the thing: we knew there were active colonies on the property. Swarmers don’t appear out of nowhere. So even without interior damage, we got those homeowners set up with Sentricon to create a protective barrier around their homes before the termites ever had a chance to get inside.

Prevention is always cheaper than treatment.

How to Get Rid of Swarming Termites: What to Do (and What NOT to Do)

What NOT to Do

When that swarm panic hits, most people want to grab a can of Raid and start spraying. We get it — it feels like doing something. But please, don’t.

• Do NOT spray the swarmers with over-the-counter products. DIY termite products are not designed for termites and almost always make the situation worse — they can scatter the colony and make professional treatment more difficult and less effective.
• Do NOT seal any holes or entry points yourself. You may trap termites inside or block access that a technician needs to properly treat.
• Do NOT throw away the dead swarmers or shed wings. Save a few in a bag or take a photo — they help us make a positive identification and choose the right treatment approach.
• Do NOT ignore wings on the floor. Shed wings are one of the most overlooked signs of termite activity. If you’re finding them in your home, something is going on — period.

What TO Do

• Let the swarmers die on their own if they’re inside — they will, within hours. You can vacuum them up once they’re dead.
• Save a few swarmers or take a clear photo and send it to a professional for identification.
• Call a licensed pest control company immediately and schedule an inspection — the swarm tells you there’s a colony. The inspection tells you where it is and how bad it’s gotten.
• Get protection in place regardless of whether damage is found. If swarmers are on your property, a colony is there too.

At Infinite Pest Control, we send a licensed technician to every inspection — not a salesperson. You get real answers from someone who actually knows what they’re looking at.

Why Acting Fast Matters More Than You Think

We can’t stress this enough: termites never stop working. They operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without rest. A new termite pair that sheds its wings and begins colonizing today can cause measurable structural damage within 24 hours under the right conditions.

One of the hardest conversations we have is with homeowners who waited. They saw the swarm, assumed it was nothing, and called us weeks later with mud tubes running up their walls or damage inside their floors. At that point, treatment is more invasive and more expensive — and some of the damage may be permanent.

Florida’s warm, humid climate is essentially paradise for termites. We are one of the highest-risk states in the country for termite damage. If you live here, this isn’t a hypothetical risk — it’s a question of when, not if.

Spotted a Swarm? Here’s Your Next Step.

If you’ve seen swarmers — whether inside your home, on your porch, in your yard, or around your foundation — don’t wait. Don’t spray. Don’t assume it’ll go away.

Call Infinite Pest Control for a free inspection. We’ll send a real, licensed technician to your home — not a salesperson — to evaluate what you’re dealing with and give you honest answers about your options.

Whether it’s setting up a Sentricon system to protect your home before damage starts, or treating an active infestation that needs to be addressed now, we’ll build a plan that fits your situation.

📞 Serving Orlando and Southwest Florida | Free Inspections | Monthly Warranty Plans Available

Frequently Asked Questions: Termite Swarm FAQ

When do termites swarm?

Subterranean termites swarm late February through May (sometimes early summer). Drywood termites swarm summer through fall.

When do termites swarm in Florida specifically?

In Florida, subterranean swarms begin as early as late February. Drywood swarms peak from June through October. Florida’s warm climate means a longer overall swarm season than most states.

How long do termite swarms last?

The swarm event itself lasts 20 minutes to a few hours. Swarmers inside your home will die on their own within hours. But the colony that produced them doesn’t stop — ever.

How long do termites swarm (season)?

In Florida, between both species, you can see swarm activity from late February all the way through October. There is no true “off season” in our climate.

Do termites swarm inside the house?

Yes. If swarmers are emerging inside your home, it almost certainly means the colony has breached the structure. This requires immediate professional attention.

What do swarming termites look like vs flying ants?

Termites have 2 body sections, straight antennae, and equal-length wings. Ants have 3 body sections, elbowed antennae, and unequal wings. When in doubt, send a photo.

How to get rid of swarming termites?

Do not spray. Let them die naturally, save a few for ID, vacuum up the dead ones, and call a licensed pest control professional for an inspection and treatment plan.

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island
• Sanibel Island

Did you know that over 70% of homeowners who find silverfish indoors also have hidden moisture issues? These creepy-crawly nuisances are more than just a localized pest problem. In fact, their presence often acts as a “smoke alarm” for moisture issues within your walls or floors.

In this blog, we’ll explain the link between silverfish and water damage, what to look for, and how to dry out your home for good.

What Are Silverfish?

Silverfish are small, wingless insects named for their metallic color and fish-like swimming movements. They usually grow to about half an inch or an inch long. Because they are nocturnal, they stay hidden during the day and only come out at night to forage.

While these pests don’t bite or spread diseases, their presence is still a major red flag. They thrive in damp, humid environments like bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms. Therefore, if you see them in a dry area like a bedroom or living room, it’s a sign that moisture is hiding nearby.

Why Silverfish Love Your Home’s Humidity

Silverfish are extremely sensitive to their environment. Specifically, they need high humidity levels—between 75% and 95%—to survive. Because their soft, scaly bodies lose water easily, they will die if the air is too dry.

Furthermore, silverfish eat starchy materials that break down quickly in humid air. This includes:

• Wallpaper glue
• Book bindings
• Cardboard boxes
• Clothing fibers

Consequently, a damp home doesn’t just give them a place to live; it provides an endless buffet.

Does Seeing Silverfish Mean You Have Water Damage?

Not necessarily, but it is a strong warning sign. While a single silverfish might just be a wanderer, a group of them usually indicates excess moisture.

If you spot silverfish, check these areas immediately for signs of a leak:

• Under Sinks: Look for dripping pipes or damp cabinets.
• Walls: Check for peeling paint, bubbling wallpaper, or water stains.
• Basements: Sniff the air for a musty odor or look for condensation on pipes.
• Attics: Ensure your roof isn’t leaking into the insulation.

If you find water damage, you must address it promptly. Otherwise, you risk structural rot and dangerous mold growth.

How to Evict Silverfish and Protect Your Property

Preventing silverfish is all about “drying them out.” If you take away their water source, they cannot survive. Follow these steps to safeguard your home:

1. Fix the Leaks: Repair any dripping faucets or plumbing issues right away.
2. Use a Dehumidifier: Keep your home’s humidity below 50% to make the environment “deadly” to silverfish.
3. Boost Ventilation: Run exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen to clear out steam.
4. Seal the Gaps: Use caulk to fill cracks in baseboards and holes around pipes where silverfish hide.
5. Ditch the Cardboard: Store your holiday decorations and old books in sealed plastic bins rather than cardboard boxes.

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When to Call the Pros

At Infinite Pest Solutions, we use environmentally friendly treatments that target silverfish at every life stage. We don’t just take care of the bugs you see; we help you identify the moisture sources that are attracting them in the first place. By controlling moisture levels and sealing entry points, you can protect your property from both pests and ensure your home stays pest-free.

Silverfish are famously good at hiding. Because they can live for up to eight years and reproduce quickly, a small problem can become a major infestation before you know it. If you are tired of seeing silverfish scurry across your floor, contact Infinite Pest Solutions today. We’ll help you find the source of the problem and get your home back to normal!

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island
• Sanibel Island

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Some of the hardest pests to get rid of in Florida include termite, big headed ants, german cockroaches, mosquitoes, and rodents. Florida’s warm, humid climate makes it a hotspot for a wide variety of pests year round. In fact, the state ranks among the highest in the U.S. for pest infestations year-round, with some species proving difficult to control. Here we will explore some of the hardest pests to rid of and solutions to help keep your home safe.

Big-Headed Ants: Persistent Invaders

First on the list of hardest pests to get rid of are big headed ants. They are a common and vicious pest in Florida. So much so, the University of Florida continues their studies on these invasive ants. Big headed ants are such an issue, they have been nominated one of the 100 “World’s Worst” invaders and out rank red imported fire ants. 

Known for their large headed major workers and aggressive foraging, these ants build colonies that can be difficult to control. Their nests are often hidden underground or inside walls, making DIY treatments ineffective. From experience, big-headed ants are especially stubborn because they establish multiple satellite colonies, allowing them to quickly rebound if disturbed. To keep them at bay, it is best to have on-going pest control services 

For more insight, check out our guide on Big-Headed Ants.

Bed Bugs: Masters of Dormancy

Bed bugs are infamous for their ability to survive without feeding for extended periods, sometimes up to a year. This dormancy makes detection and ridding of them very hard. These nocturnal pests hide in mattress seams, furniture crevices, and wall voids. They emerge only to feed on human blood.

Our experience shows that bed bug infestations often require multiple treatment rounds and professional expertise to fully eliminate, as they can easily go unnoticed during early stages. Early detection and thorough inspections are key.

For more insight, check out our guide on Bed bugs.

Termites: The Relentless Wood Destroyers

Per Pestworld.org, termites cause close to $6.8 billion dollars in damage in the United States every year. Florida has the ideal climate for termites, which remain active 24/7 throughout the year. These wood-destroying insects silently chew through structural wood, causing significant damage before homeowners realize there’s a problem.

Termites’ underground colonies and ability to enter buildings through tiny cracks make eradication difficult. From firsthand experience, termite control requires vigilant monitoring and specialized treatments to protect your property effectively.

Learn more about our Termite Control services to safeguard your home.

Rodents: The Unwelcome Repeat Offenders

Rats and mice are not only a nuisance but also pose health risks by contaminating food and spreading disease. Without proper prevention, rodents will continuously return, exploiting any small gaps or cluttered areas to nest.

Our experience highlights that sealing entry points is vital, as even a pencil-sized hole can be an invitation. Coupled with ongoing monitoring and sanitation, professional rodent control can break the cycle.

Explore our Rodent Control services and learn about the differences between species in our post on Mice vs Rats.

German Roaches: Rapid Reproducers in Hidden Places

German cockroaches thrive in tight, dark spaces like wall voids and behind appliances, making them notoriously hard to eliminate. Their rapid reproduction means a small infestation can quickly explode if left unchecked.

Based on experience, these roaches require a multi-faceted approach including sanitation, baiting, and professional pesticide application to achieve lasting control.

Find out how to tackle these pests in our Cockroach Pest Control services and the guide on How to Get Rid of Roaches.

Mosquitoes: Persistent and Dangerous Pests

Mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they are vectors for diseases such as West Nile Virus and Zika. Florida’s rainy seasons create ideal breeding grounds with standing water, allowing mosquito populations to flourish.

Controlling mosquitoes requires eliminating standing water and professional treatments that target larvae and adult mosquitoes alike.

Learn about effective Mosquito Control options to protect your family.

Conclusion

Florida’s unique conditions fosters some of the most challenging pests to control. From the resilient bed bugs and relentless termites to the ever-returning rodents and fast reproducing roaches. Knowing these pests’ behaviors and weaknesses is critical. Pest management remains the most reliable solution for lasting protection.

If you’re struggling with any of these persistent pests, call us today or get a free quote. Our expert team provides complete pest solutions tailored to Florida’s toughest invaders.

Our Southwest, FL Service Locations:

• Fort Myers
• Cape Coral
• Naples
• Babcock Ranch
• Lehigh Acres
• Ave Maria
• Estero
• Bonita Springs
• Marco Island
• Sanibel Island

Our Orlando Service Locations:

• Orlando
• Clermont
• Apopka
• Windermere
• St. Cloud
• Winter Garden
• Lake Buena Vista
• Kissimmee
• Sanford
• Davenport
• Oakland
• Minneola
• Lake Nona
• Ocoee
• Longwood
• Lake Mary
• Oviedo
• Winter Park
• Altamonte Springs

Fire ants are a rapidly spreading invasive species. Each year in the United States, these pests cause millions of painful stings. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that fire ant stings send thousands of people to emergency rooms due to severe allergic reactions and infections.

Understanding fire ant behavior is the first step in protecting your home, family, and pets. Consequently, knowing how to spot them and how to fight back can save you a lot of pain.

What Are Fire Ants?

Fire ants are small, reddish-brown to black insects known for their aggressive nature. They get their name from the intense, burning sensation their stings leave behind. Typically, these ants measure about 1/8 inch long.

Big headed ants are commonly mistaken for fire ants. The biggest difference in these two species of ants is that big headed ants have major workers with much larger heads.

Unlike many other ant species that only bite, fire ants use a “grip and sting” tactic.  Additionally, they bite to anchor themselves to their target and then sting repeatedly with the venomous stinger at the tip of their abdomen. This process then injects venom that causes sharp pain and often results in itchy, pus-filled blisters.

Fire Ant Behavior and Habitat

Fire ants build complex colonies run by one or more queens. You can usually identify their presence by their nests, which look like rounded, “fluffy” mounds of loose soil. These mounds can range from a few inches to several feet wide.

Where do they live?

• Sunny spots: They prefer open areas like lawns, parks, and pastures.
• Hidden areas: They may nest under pavement or inside electrical boxes.
• Indoor intrusion: If food is sensed through cracks/crevices, they will intrude.

While they are from South America, fire ants arrived in the U.S. in the early 20th century. This explains the other name “red imported fire ants”. Since then, they have marched across the South and West, from Florida to California. They become most active during warm months and often surface after heavy rain to keep their larvae from drowning.

In one instance of our pest career, we were called out to a home by a customer whose newborn was being attacked by fire ants in their crib. Due to unsealed crevices by the child’s window and remaining on the child, fire ants found their way to the crib. Following this incident we were contacted to inspect and come up with a plan to prevent this again. As a result of the inspection and pest control plan, we were able to ensure this never happened again.

Risks: More Than Just a Sting

Fire ant stings are notoriously painful, but the risks go deeper than skin level. For sensitive individuals, a sting can trigger life-threatening allergic reactions. Additionally, pets—especially curious dogs—can suffer from rashes or serious complications if they stumble into a mound.

Because the stings itch intensely, many people scratch them, which leads to secondary bacterial infections like staph. Therefore, it is vital to keep an eye on any stings for signs of spreading redness or fever.

What Do Fire Ants Eat?

Fire ants are not picky eaters; they will consume almost anything. Outdoors, they act as predators, feeding on:

• Fleas and ticks
• Spiders
• Cockroaches

However, if they find their way indoors, they shift their focus to your pantry. They seek out sweets, fats, and proteins, often invading kitchens in search of even the smallest crumbs.

How to Spot an Infestation

To find fire ants on your property, look for dome-shaped mounds with loose soil and no obvious center entrance hole. If you see individual ants inside near food sources, it likely means a colony is thriving just outside. Because fire ants can squeeze through tiny cracks, even a few ants indoors warrant an Infinite inspection.

Effective Fire Ant Control Methods

To truly eliminate a fire ant problem, you must kill the queen. If the queen survives, the colony will simply regenerate. While many “DIY” home remedies exist, they just cause the colony to move to a different part of your yard.

Professional pest control is the most reliable solution. Infinite uses a multi-step approach:

• Prevention: Regular maintenance prevents new colonies from moving in from the neighbor’s yard or grow in yours.

• Detailed Inspection: Our licensed technicians inspect the inside and outside of the home to come up with the best game plan.

• Targeted Baits: We use treatments that worker ants carry back to the queen.

• Growth Regulators: These stop the ants from reproducing.

Protect Your Home Today

Fire ants are aggressive, but you don’t have to surrender your yard to them. Recognizing the signs of an infestation is your first line of defense. At Infinite Pest Solutions we specialize in safeguarding your family and pets from these hazardous pests.

Don’t let fire ants take over your outdoor space. Reach out to us today so you can get back to enjoying your yard in peace!