“Rain flies” is a casual name for flying insects that appear after rain; it does not identify one species. Some may be winged termites, while others are flying ants or unrelated insects. Check the body, antennae, wing shape, where they emerged and whether discarded wings or termite workings are nearby.
If the swarm appeared around a Rockhampton property, see termite inspection in Rockhampton for property-specific advice.
Quick identification check
Winged termites usually have a less pinched body shape and two pairs of wings that look similar in length. Flying ants generally show a clearer waist, bent antennae and front wings that differ from the rear pair. Small insects are easy to misread, so a clear close-up photo or retained specimen can help.
Also record:
- whether the insects came from soil, timber, a wall gap or a light;
- where discarded wings collected;
- whether mud-like workings or damaged timber are present;
- the date, weather and time of the swarm.
Do not spray or open suspected termite activity. The visible swarm does not show the full property risk.
Related reading
Use the detailed flying ants or termites after rain guide and the signs of termites checklist.