Georgia Correctional Officer (CO) Practice Exam

Which termites are known to swarm during the day?

1. Formosan termites

2. Drywood termites

3. Eastern subs

4. West Indian powderpost termites

The correct answer is: Eastern subs

Eastern subterranean termites are indeed known for their tendency to swarm during the day. This behavior generally occurs in late spring to early summer and is influenced by environmental conditions. Unlike some other termite species, which may prefer to swarm at dusk or during nighttime to avoid predators and dehydration, Eastern subterranean termites have adapted to taking advantage of daytime warmth and humidity, optimizing their chance for successful mating and colony establishment. The swarming process is critical for the reproduction and spread of the species, as it allows new colonies to be established after the nuptial flights. Understanding the behavior of Eastern subterranean termites—especially their swarming patterns—enables better pest management and control strategies, as it indicates the time frame during which infestations may occur. In contrast, other types of termites, such as Formosan termites, often swarm later in the day or at night, while drywood termites typically do not have a strong swarm pattern like Eastern subterranean termites. The behavior of West Indian powderpost termites also differs, as they are not known to swarm in the same manner as Eastern subterranean termites, instead relying on other mechanisms for reproduction and spread.