Warnings are being sounded by pest experts over a predicted upsurge in flying ant numbers, citing alternating wet and warm weather as the key catalyst for what could be an unprecedented Flying Ant Day—the yearly spectacle where countless ants take to the skies in a spectacular mating dance.
According to pest control specialists at Rentokil, this summer’s oscillating weather conditions, notably the high humidity, are setting the stage for intense ant swarms. A spokesperson from Rentokil remarked: “In past years, radar systems have even mistaken these dense clouds of ants for rain.”
Paul Blackhurst, head of the Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, alerts to the potential extent of this year’s swarming: “Experts warn that this year could see larger-than-usual swarms of flying ants, as we approach Flying Ant Day, also known as the nuptial flight, and sometimes nicknamed ‘flant day’.”
Mr Blackhurst elaborates on the phenomena stating: “This natural event, when vast numbers of winged ants, known as alates, take to the skies at once in search of mates from other colonies, could be one of the most prolific for years. The alternating wet and warm weather we have been experiencing recently is creating the perfect conditions for larger-than-usual swarms, as humidity is important in keeping the ants’ wings and bodies moist during flight and ‘mating on the wing’.”
He further explains that Flying Ant Day is not confined to a particular date annually but can happen variably across regions due to climatic nuances: “Despite the name, Flying Ant Day doesn’t happen on a single fixed day each year. These swarming events can occur at different times across the country, depending on the weather, and in particular, temperature, humidity and wind.”, reports Wales Online.
“While you might see a few flying ants on most warm summer days, ideal weather conditions can trigger the appearance of tens of millions of them taking to the skies in massive swarms over several weeks across Britain. On radar, these dense clouds of insects can even resemble rain.
“Though it may seem like a summertime nuisance, this swarming strategy is believed to help more ants survive by overwhelming their predators including swifts and gulls. After mating mid-air, the male ants which are smaller will quickly fall to the ground and die. The newly fertilised female queens shed their wings and burrow into the soil to nest and start new colonies.
“While flying ants might disrupt your picnic, barbecue, or pub garden pint, they play a vital role in the ecosystem by aerating soil, recycling nutrients, and serving as a key food source for birds.”
Prevention tips for your home from the pest experts at Rentokil include blocking entry points by sealing cracks and crevices around doors, windows and pipework and sweeping up food debris from under kitchen appliances and units.
You should also clear up any food or liquid spillages immediately and store your food in airtight containers wherever possible. If you have a pet, clear away any food that isn’t eaten straight away. Make sure all rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids.
Keeping windows and doors shut is one of the most effective methods of preventing flying insects from entering your home. Fitting a fly screen can stop flying ants from infiltrating your home, while still allowing you to keep windows and doors open.
Employing a potent detergent can erase any pheromone trails that foraging ants have established to guide other ants to a food source.
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