Can Ants Have Wings
Yes, ants can have wings, but only certain members of a colony develop them. Winged ants are typically reproductive individuals—either males (drones) or fertile females (queens).
After mating, males die, while fertilized females shed their wings and search for a nesting site to establish a new colony. Worker ants, which make up the majority of an ant colony, do not have wings.
Do Ants Fly?
Winged ants, or alates, typically fly during their nuptial flight, which occurs under specific environmental conditions. This usually happens:
Seasonally: Most species swarm during the warmer months, often in late spring or summer.
After Rainfall: Many species wait for a warm, humid day after a rainstorm, as the moist soil makes it easier for fertilized queens to dig and start new colonies.
During Specific Times of Day: Some species prefer late morning to afternoon, while others swarm around dusk.
In Large Numbers: Colonies synchronize their nuptial flights with others in the area to increase the chances of successful mating.
If you’re seeing flying ants indoors, it may indicate that an ant colony is nesting inside your home.
Flying Ants In Your Home?
If you have flying ants inside your home, it typically means one of two things:
An Indoor Ant Infestation – If you’re seeing multiple flying ants inside, especially in areas like walls, floors, or window sills, it could indicate that a mature ant colony is already nesting inside your home. The presence of alates suggests the colony has reached the reproductive stage, meaning it has been established for a while. Carpenter ants, in particular, are a concern because they tunnel into wood to create nests, potentially causing structural damage.
Flying Ants Entered from Outside – Sometimes, winged ants swarm outdoors and accidentally enter through open windows, doors, or vents. If they are few in number and seem to be attracted to light sources, they may not be nesting indoors but rather are just strays from a nearby outdoor colony.
Signs of an Indoor Ant Infestation:
Frequent sightings of worker ants – even when alates are not present.
Piles of wood shavings – a sign of carpenter ants excavating tunnels.
Rustling sounds inside walls – caused by ant activity.
Dead winged ants near windows – indicating they emerged from inside and tried to get out.
What to Do:
Identify the Species – Different ants require different treatments. Carpenter ants, for example, need immediate attention due to potential structural damage.
Follow the Ant Trail – If you see worker ants, trace their movement to locate the nest.
Check Moisture-Prone Areas – Many ant species nest in damp, hidden spots like wall voids, attics, and under sinks.
Use Baits or Call a Professional – DIY baiting can help control minor infestations, but for larger or carpenter ant issues, professional pest control is the best solution.