Unexpected Roommates: Shanghai’s Springtime Termite Visitors

"If you spot winged intruders in your Shanghai apartment this spring, don’t panic! You’ve just met the city’s seasonal ‘invisible tenants’—termites."

Spring in Shanghai is a magical time—cherry blossoms bloom, the weather warms up, and people flock to outdoor cafés and parks to enjoy the fresh air. But alongside the beauty of the season, there’s a tiny, less welcome surprise: termites!

If you suddenly notice small winged insects flying around your lights or windows, don’t panic! You’re not under attack. You’ve just encountered Shanghai’s seasonal “hidden tenants” —springtime termites, a phenomenon that catches many newcomers off guard. These little insects make a brief appearance each year, and while they can be a nuisance, they’re mostly harmless if handled correctly.

Termites are most active between March and April , especially after rainy or humid weather. On some nights, they seem to appear out of nowhere, filling rooms and hallways with their fluttering wings.

Shanghai’s climate is warm and humid , especially in spring, creating the perfect environment for termites. The city’s older buildings, such as historic lane houses and colonial-era villas , often have wooden structures , which termites love. These old buildings retain moisture, making them a termite paradise.

Many people mistake termites for flying ants, but there are a few key differences:

• Wings: Termites have equal-sized wings , while ants have larger front wings and smaller back wings.
• Body Shape: Termites have a straight, uniform body , whereas ants have a more defined waistline .
• Antennae: Termites’ antennae are straight , while ants’ are slightly bent .

Termites are naturally attracted to light , which is why they swarm around lamps and bright windows at night. If you see them gathering near your ceiling lights, they’re simply drawn to the glow.

• Turn off unnecessary lights. Since termites are attracted to light, keeping rooms dark can help reduce their presence.
• Use a vacuum cleaner. If termites have already entered your home, vacuum them up and immediately dispose of the vacuum bag outside.
• Do NOT squash them. Squishing termites can leave behind a scent trail , which may attract more termites.

• Keep doors and windows closed at night. This is especially important if your lights are on.
• Use insect repellent near entry points. Spraying repellent around door frames, window edges, and vents can deter termites from entering.
• Reduce moisture in your home. Using a dehumidifier can make your living space less attractive to termites.

If you’re staying in a rental property, Hills properties take proactive pest control measures , including regular inspections and preventive treatments. This significantly reduces the chances of a termite issue. If you still notice termites, you can contact the landlord or property management for further assistance.

While termites may seem like a sudden invasion, remember—they’re temporary visitors . Within a few weeks, their swarming phase will be over, and they’ll disappear as quickly as they arrived.

Shanghai has so much more to offer than studying the flight patterns of termites. Instead of worrying about these tiny guests, why not go explore the city’s neon skyline, hidden alleyways, or famous street food stalls ?

So, keep calm, turn off the lights, and let the termites find their way out—after all, they’re not paying rent!