June was an interesting month with recent termite swarming in Naples…… One might think this only impacts older homes, but the reality has been that termites have been in hibernation with newer homes and have been primarily in hardwood flooring and kitchen cabinets at new houses. It sure was a surprise to see ‘wings’ in several new houses when making recent home visits.
Why Are Termites on the Rise in Naples?
1. Climate Amplification
Florida’s warm, humid weather creates ideal conditions for termites year-round. Experts emphasize that termite activity isn’t confined to spring alone. In fact, subterranean termites, particularly Formosan species, remain active 24/7, 365 days a year—only becoming visibly noticeable during swarming season in late winter to spring.
2. The Spread of Hybrid Super-Termites
Alarm bells are ringing after the University of Florida recently identified hybrid offspring between the aggressive Formosan and Asian subterranean termite species in southern Florida (NBC 6 South Florida). These hybrids may not yet be more destructive, but they could be more resilient—raising red flags for Naples homeowners.
What This Means for Naples Homeowners
- More Frequent Swarms: While swarming season typically runs from March to June, swarms have been reported nearly year-round in South Florida (Native Pest Management). Seeing discarded wings or flying termites indoors is often the only visible sign of deep-rooted infestations.
- Greater Structural Risk: Subterranean termites, especially Formosan and Asian types, can cause severe damage—eating through wood at a rapid pace and leaving structural vulnerabilities behind (Native Pest Management).
- Complex Invasion Patterns: With multiple termite species and hybrids present—including eastern, dampwood, cone-headed, and drywood termites—accurate identification is critical (Native Pest Management).
Smart Prevention Starts With Awareness
Know the signs
- Mud tubes on foundations or walls
- Hollow-sounding wood, especially near structural beams
- Termite “frass” (tiny pellet-like droppings), especially from drywood species (Beaumont Enterprise, kishpest.com)
- Discarded wings near windowsills or entry points (Beaumont Enterprise)
Inspect regularly & professionally
Local companies in Naples offer inspections and termite-specific services such as Sentricon bait systems and soil treatments.
Choose tailored treatments
- Subterranean termites: trenching, bait stations, or liquid termiticides are most effective (UF/IFAS Blogs).
- Drywood termites: often require fumigation (“tenting”) or targeted orange-oil/borate treatments .
- Hybrid/invasive species: monitoring and treatment protocols are continuously evolving, making professional guidance essential (WPLG).
Tech & Trends: What’s Ahead in Pest Control?
Florida’s pest industry is innovating. IoT-enabled monitoring traps, eco-friendly foams, and digital analytics help detect termite activity early and reduce environmental impact.
Final Take: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
For Naples residents, heightened termite activity isn’t a passing spring phenomenon—it’s a year-long reality. From increasing swarms to hybrid termite emergence, today’s threats call for heightened vigilance and informed prevention. Regular inspections, precise treatments, and trusted pest professionals are key to safeguarding your home.
Stay alert, stay informed—and don’t let termites dig into your peace of mind. If you are looking to have a seasoned professional visit your home, please contact us at Luxury Home Services, www.NaplesLHS.com