When Is Termite Swarm Season in the Florida Panhandle?
Termite swarm season in Northwest Florida typically runs from late February through Father's Day in June, with peak activity in March and April. Warmer-than-normal winters push the start date earlier — swarm activity is already being reported across Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, and Walton counties as of this writing.
What Triggers Termite Swarming?
Termites don't swarm on a calendar — they swarm in response to environmental cues:
- Warm temperatures after a cool period — the classic trigger. A warm front following a cold snap, especially if accompanied by rain, is prime swarming weather.
- High humidity and rainfall — termites need moisture to survive above ground. Soft, moist conditions after rain make swarming safer and more successful.
- Daylight hours — most subterranean termite species swarm during daytime, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM, often on warm days following afternoon rain.
The dramatic weather swings of a NW Florida spring — cold nights, warm days, afternoon thunderstorms — create near-perfect swarming conditions repeatedly throughout the season.
Termite Swarm Season Timeline for NW Florida
- Late February – March: Season begins. Early warm spells trigger the first swarms. Subterranean and Formosan swarmers both active.
- April – May: Peak swarm season. Highest frequency of swarm events. Most homeowner calls occur during this window.
- June (through Father's Day): Swarm activity tapers off as temperatures stabilize into summer heat. Late-season swarms still possible.
- July – January: Swarm season over for the year. Colonies continue feeding but do not release swarmers until next season.
Formosan vs. Subterranean Swarm Timing
NW Florida has two primary swarming species with slightly different patterns:
- Eastern subterranean termites — swarm earlier in the season, typically late February through April, often in morning hours on warm days after rain.
- Formosan subterranean termites — swarm later, typically May through June, often in evening hours around lights. Formosan swarms are usually much larger in number and more dramatic in appearance.
If you're seeing large evening swarms around outdoor lights in May or June — that's almost certainly Formosan. And Formosan colonies are significantly more destructive than native subterranean species.
How to Prepare Before Swarm Season Peaks
- ✅ Schedule a termite inspection now — before peak season hits and appointment availability tightens
- ✅ Install or renew Sentricon protection — bait stations should be in the ground and active before swarm season, not after
- ✅ Check exterior for existing mud tubes along the foundation
- ✅ Reduce wood-to-soil contact around the home — firewood, mulch, and wood debris near the foundation increase risk
- ✅ Seal gaps around utility penetrations, door sweeps, and expansion joints
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a termite swarm last?
Individual swarm events last 30–60 minutes. Swarm season as a whole runs roughly February through Father's Day.
If I see swarmers but no damage, do I still need treatment?
Yes. Swarmers are produced by established colonies that are already feeding. Visible structural damage often lags months or years behind active infestation.
Does Sentricon work during swarm season?
Yes — Sentricon is effective year-round. Installing it now will begin colony elimination, and the ongoing monitoring continues to protect your home after swarm season ends.
Don't wait for peak season. Call (850) 682-4333 now to schedule your inspection before the busiest weeks hit. Cadenhead Services — Certified Sentricon Specialist, FL License JB365.
