Videos Show Massive Swarms of Termites in South Louisiana

(KTDY) - Termites are swarming in Louisiana as temperatures begin to warm up, and some recent videos from South Louisiana show just how massive the swarms are.

According to Orkin, termites often swarm between March and June, typically on warm, sunny days after heavy rainfall.

Well, in recent days, much of South Louisiana has received several inches of rain, and now that things are drying out, it's perfect for these unwelcome pests to swarm. Now, just because you see a swarm of termites near your home does not mean that the home's structure will be impacted.

How to Spot Damage By Termites

Terminx says that termites consume wood from the inside out, leaving a thin veneer. Tapping on walls, trim, or flooring that sounds hollow or papery indicates damage.

Another indication that you may have termites affecting your home is ig you notice buckling of your floors or blistering paint on the walls. Also, if you notice piles of small wings, often found on windowsills or near doors, that could indicate that termites are starting new colonies.

Lastly, if you notice broken or exposed wood on your home, intricate tunnels with mud-lined walls are a sign that termites are eating away at it. I've also been told by experienced exterminators to look for what appears to be sawdust on your floors. If you see such, you need to contact your professional exterminating company immediately for an inspection.

Ways to Keep Termites Out of Your House

As termites swarm and soon begin to build colonies, there are some things you can do around your home to keep termites out.

Home Depot recommends eliminating moisture sources in your home. Fix any leaks in or around your home, and do not allow standing water to remain in or around your house.

Plus, an exterminator told me once that termites are attracted to light at night. During peak swarm season, you may want to eliminate exterior light sources if you can.

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The LSU AgCenter also recommends eliminating food sources in your yard, such as firewood.  So, if you have any leftover wood from the winter, you certainly either want to burn it or relocate iit away from your house. It is also wise to never place garden mulch near your slab or foundation; rather, leave it 8 to 15 inches from your house.

Lastly, do your best to eliminate entry points to your home or attic. Seal cracks and use steel mesh to prevent termites from entering the interior of your house.

Now, let's get to a few videos from New Orleans and the Baton Rouge area that show termites swarming. Not only is this somewhat gross, but it is also concerning for those who live in these parts of South Louisiana.

In another video, you see another swarm in Louisiana, and here are a few more pointers on what you can do to keep termites from destroying your house.