California has a very large termite population. In fact, it's one of the highest-risk states for termites.

Flying termites usually mean that a termite colony nearby has matured and is attempting to reproduce and grow. In California, swarming activity is commonly associated with subterranean and drywood termites. Finding flying termites indoors, particularly near windows, doors, attics, or light sources, may indicate an active infestation inside a structure.

In California, termite activity can occur year-round due to the state's mild climate. Subterranean termite swarms typically occur in spring, especially after rain and during periods of increased humidity. Drywood termite swarms are more common in late summer and fall. In some coastal and southern parts of California, termite activity can continue year-round.

Drywood termites live directly inside dry wood and do not need soil contact, while subterranean termites build underground colonies and require moisture and soil to survive.

Formosan subterranean termites can be found in some areas of Southern California, but they are less widespread than the other major termite species.

Southern California carries heavier overall pressure, with dense drywood termite activity and no cold season to slow colonies. Northern California termites lean toward subterranean and dampwood species that follow moisture. Both regions see year-round indoor activity, so neither is low-risk.

Winged termites indoors usually mean a mature colony is inside or very close to the structure. Swarmers are poor fliers and don't travel far from their colony, so finding them, or piles of shed wings, near windows and doors is one of the clearest early signals to schedule an inspection.