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The Buzz
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Each summer, swarms of winged ants appear suddenly across the UK, catching many by surprise. This unusual natural event, known as Flying Ant Day, might seem alarming, but it’s a completely normal -and essential part of the ant life cycle.
In this blog, we explain what Flying Ant Day is, why it happens, when to expect it, and what you can do if these ants appear around your home or business.
Flying Ant Day isn’t a single, fixed day – it’s the term used to describe the period when thousands of flying ants emerge simultaneously from their nests to mate. This synchronised event is part of their reproductive process and involves black garden ants (Lasius niger), one of the UK’s most common species.
During this time, male ants and virgin queens grow wings and take flight to find a mate in the air, a phenomenon known as a nuptial flight.
Flying Ant Day typically takes place between late June and early August, with the peak often occurring in mid-to-late July. However, the exact timing varies based on weather conditions.
Warm, humid days following rain create the ideal conditions for this mass emergence. In some years, it may happen over several days or weeks in different parts of the country.
Did you know? The Royal Society of Biology has collected data showing that “Flying Ant Day” can span a month or more, not just a single day.
The queen ant can live for up to 15 years and only mates once in her lifetime.
This spectacle is all about reproduction and species survival. Here’s what happens:
This airborne mating ritual helps ants spread to new locations and promotes genetic diversity by mixing individuals from different nests.
Flying ants may be a nuisance, but they are not harmful. They don’t sting or bite in most cases and aren’t interested in human food. However, swarms may:
If you encounter flying ants in or around your home or business:
Short-Term Actions
Long-Term Prevention
While Flying Ant Day is a short-lived phenomenon, the presence of ants inside your home or business is a sign that further action may be needed.
At Vergo Pest Management, we offer expert ant control services across the UK. Our BPCA-qualified technicians can identify nests, provide safe treatments, and recommend preventative measures to protect your property from ant infestations.
Need help with ants or other pests?
📞 Call Vergo on 0344 335 0330 or enquire now for fast, friendly advice.
Get all of your UK pest control updates here at The Buzz!
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