In North Carolina, residents often encounter flying ants during the warm, humid months, particularly after a rainstorm. But why do ants fly?
Winged ants are known as alates, and are the reproductive members of an ant colony. They take to the air in large swarms during a phenomenon called a “nuptial flight”. This flight is essential for their life cycle, allowing male and female ants to mate and establish new colonies. After mating, the males typically die, while the fertilized females shed their wings and search for a suitable location to start a new colony.
The sight of ants with wings in the house indicates that a colony is nearby, and they are seeking to establish new nests. Let’s take a look at why they might be in your house, and how to remove them.
Why Are There Flying Ants in My House?
Flying ants in the house are typically looking for a new place to start a colony. They are attracted to heat and light, which is why you might find them around windows or light fixtures. They are also attracted to sugary foods and crumbs, so you might find them in your kitchen or dining area. If you notice a large number of these ants inside your home, or even your pool, it could mean that there’s an ant nest in your house or very close by.
How To Get Rid Of Flying Ants
Home Remedies for Flying Ant Control
Identify the Source
The first step in flying ant control is to find out where they are coming from. Look for ant trails, nests, or entry points around windows, doors, and foundations.
Use a Vacuum Cleaner
To quickly get rid of flying ants in the house, use a vacuum cleaner. This is an effective way to remove them without spreading chemicals in your living space. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outside immediately.
Soap and Water Spray
Mix water with dish soap and spray it directly on flying ants. The soap helps to break down their exoskeletons, killing them on contact. This method is safe for indoor use and helps in reducing the number of ants flying around.
Flying Ant Traps and Baits
Sticky traps can be placed near windows and other entry points. These traps are excellent for catching flying ants in house as they try to enter. Also, ant baits can be used to target the colony – place the baits where you see ants with wings in the house. The ants will carry the bait back to their nest, eventually killing the colony.
Preventing Future Infestations
We recommend a three-step approach to protecting your home from future flying ant infestations:
1. Seal Entry Points
Prevent flying ants from entering your home by sealing cracks and crevices around windows, doors, and foundations. Using caulk or weather stripping is ideal for blocking these potential entry points. Regular maintenance of your home’s exterior can significantly reduce the risk of finding a flying ants’ nest in your house.
2. Regular Cleaning
Keeping your home clean is essential in flying ant control. Regularly vacuuming, sweeping, and wiping down surfaces removes food particles and crumbs that attract ants. A quick, regular wipe-down of the kitchen and dining area after every meal makes your home much less attractive to ants. Also ensure that garbage is disposed of properly and promptly, and use sealed containers for food storage.
3. Monitor and Inspect
Regularly inspect your home for signs of ant activity. Look for ant trails, small piles of sawdust (a sign of carpenter ants), or the presence of winged ants. Early detection is key to preventing a full-blown infestation.
Natural Remedies for Flying Ants
If the infestation is not too serious or prolonged, you might want to try some home remedies for getting rid of flying ants.
Diatomaceous Earth – Diatomaceous earth is a natural, non-toxic powder. Sprinkle it around entry points and areas where you have seen ants. It works by dehydrating the ants, leading to their death.
Essential Oils – Certain essential oils, such as peppermint, tea tree, and lemon, are known to repel ants. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water and spray it around your home, especially near entry points and areas where ants are commonly seen.
Vinegar Solution – A mixture of vinegar and water can be an effective deterrent for flying ants. Spray this solution around windows, doors, and other entry points. The strong smell of vinegar disrupts their scent trails and helps to keep them away.
When to Call a Professional Ant Exterminator
If you have tried these methods and still find flying ants in the house, it may be time to call a professional pest control service. It’s also advisable to call in the professionals for more severe flying ant infestations. A professional can thoroughly inspect your home, identify the type of ants, and determine the best course of action. They have access to more potent treatments and can ensure that the flying ants and their nest are dealt with swiftly and safely.
Dealing with flying ants in house can be challenging, but with the right approach, it is manageable. By understanding how to get rid of flying ants and implementing effective prevention strategies, you can protect your home from these unwelcome visitors.