Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, is preparing the public for the annual phenomenon known as flying ant day, a period typically in late July and early August, rather than a single day, when the insects begin to emerge from their nests to mate.
This phenomenon occurs during summer when flying ants leave the nest to reproduce and start a new colony. Swarms of flying ants from multiple colonies conjoin to breed mid-air. It is thought that flying ants often come out in huge numbers as a survival tactic designed to overwhelm potential predators such as swifts and gulls.
Such events can occur in different areas of the country at different times across the summer when the weather - temperature, humidity, and wind conditions are favourable. After mating, the female ants fall to the ground, lose their wings, and look for a suitable location to start a new nest. Commonly known as black garden ants, they will often colonise locations under garden pots, in between and under patio slabs, and in planters.
Steps that can be taken to avoid the presence of these pest insects in homes and businesses include:
Clear up any food or liquid spillages immediately.
Sweep up any food crumbs from under your kitchen appliances and units.
Store your food in airtight containers wherever possible.
If you have a pet, clear away any food that isn’t eaten straight away.
In the garden, keep your compost enclosed and make sure all rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids.
Seal cracks and crevices around doors and window frames.
Keeping windows and doors shut is one of the most effective methods of preventing flying insects from entering your home or business
Installing a fly screen will prevent flying ants from entering your home whilst leaving windows and doors open
“Late July and early August is when we see this phenomenon occur," said Colm Moore, area technical manager for Rentokil. "While it is often labelled as ‘flying ant day’, it is, in reality, an extended period of time where we can expect to see increased activity from these insects.
“Ants can enter a premises in search of food and while ant infestations don’t present a danger to inhabitants, they can be a nuisance, and a small problem can quickly become a large one. If they find a food source, ants will lay down a pheromone trail which attracts other ants to the area. You can find out more about ant infestations by visiting the Rentokil website.”
