Florida Faces Swarming of Subterranean Termites and Ants Florida, known for its warm and humid climate, is currently experiencing a significant increase in the swarming of subterranean termites and ants12. This has raised concerns among homeowners and scientists alike. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) has reported that Florida is entering its termite swarm season1. The state is home to 21 established termite species, making it the state with the highest number of termite species in the continental United States1. The Asian subterranean termite, a tropical species, is particularly common from Key West to West Palm Beach1. Starting in early March, South Florida witnesses large swarms of these termites at dusk1. UF/IFAS scientists are conducting year-round research on termites at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center13. They are studying the different termite species that impact structures and trees in Florida to get ahead of these wood destroyers1. Thomas Chouvenc, an assistant professor of urban entomology at the research center in Davie, said, "The termite problem is changing in Florida. With some invasive species spreading, we are entering a new norm in terms of potential termite damage"1. In addition to termites, ants have also been reported to swarm in large numbers. Homeowners are advised to be proactive year-round in Florida to reduce the potential for damage to their homes and trees1. UF/IFAS has also provided an interactive map for Florida residents to see the distribution of all termite species, and its history in their residential area and throughout the state1. This can help them possibly narrow down the type of termite detected in their area1. This situation underscores the importance of regular monitoring for termite activity and damage as a critical first step to early detection and preventing damage to trees and houses1. For more information, please visit the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center’s website1.  University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). (2024). “Florida Enters Termite Swarm Season”. UF/IFAS News. Retrieved from UF/IFAS News website. Broward County Sheriff’s Office. (2024). “Pest Control Employee Accused of Poisoning Wildlife”. Broward County Sheriff’s Office News. Retrieved from Broward County Sheriff’s Office News website. Weston Town Center. (2024). “Investigation of Dead Birds at Weston Town Center”. Weston Town Center News. Retrieved from Weston Town Center News website. UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. (2024).