When do Formosan termites typically swarm?

Formosan termites typically swarm during the warmer months, particularly in late spring to early summer. This period is generally recognized as occurring from May through August. The swarming behavior is a critical aspect of their reproductive cycle, where winged adults (alates) emerge in mass to mate and establish new colonies.

The designated timeframe from May to June and extending into July and August aligns with the peak period in many regions where environmental conditions are favorable for their swarming activities. Warmer temperatures and increased humidity during these months create an ideal environment for the termites. This aligns with the natural life cycle of Formosan termites, which often results in significant swarming events in the specified timeframe.

Other timeframes listed do not capture the complete annual swarming cycle of Formosan termites accurately, as they either start or end too early in the year before optimal conditions are met, or they do not reflect the dual phase of swarming that can occur in the later summer months. Therefore, the correct answer effectively encompasses the full range of their swarming activity.