Flying Termites Take a Dangerous Journey to a New Life

Subterranean termites fly off in swarms, and then drop their wings to start new colonies.

Flying Termites Take a Dangerous Journey to a New Life Deep Look

Premiered February 01, 2022
Flying Termites Take a Dangerous Journey to a New Life

After the first big rain, western subterranean termites swarm by the thousands. Hungry ants, spiders and birds pick them off as they emerge from the soil. The survivors fly off to find mates, and quickly drop their delicate wings to start new underground colonies. If you’re really unlucky, they’ll build tubes of mud and saliva from their nest to yours.

About the Program

Deep Look

See the unseen at the very edge of our visible world. Get a new perspective on our place in the universe and meet extraordinary new friends. Explore big scientific mysteries by going incredibly small.

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