Ants with wings, also known as swarmers or reproductives, emerge from established colonies to reproduce-mate and establish new colonies. Most ant species found in Canada form new colonies by producing winged ants and swarming during the warmer weather of spring and early summer.
Flying ants are swarmers of both genders. Males are produced solely to fulfill reproductive functions and die shortly after mating, while newly mated females search for suitable nesting sites to lay eggs and become queens of the new colonies. In an event known as a nuptial flight, ants with wings mate while swarming and flying in air. After mating, the newly minted queen finds a prime location to create a nest, detach her wings and lay her eggs. Winged males, on the other hand, typically die within two weeks of mating.
Upon establishing a nesting site and laying eggs, the formerly winged queen raises the first generation of offspring alone. Once the newly hatched offspring reach adulthood, they become worker ants and take charge of searching for food and expanding the nest while the queen retains sole responsibility for laying eggs. Depending on the species, ant colonies take between one to six years to mature and produce winged swarmers. The sight of ants with wings therefore likely indicates the nearby presence of a mature, and probably large, colony.
Additionally, since reproductive swarmers or flying ants typically emerge from the colony between April and June, finding flying ants in your house during winter months usually signals the existence of an indoor infestation.
How to Get Rid of Flying Ants in Your House
If you’re finding that flying ants are causing an issue inside or outside your house, contact Orkin Canada today for ant pest control treatments. We can help end the infestation and prevent them from coming back.
Find your local branch
National coverage, local expertise. With over 30 branches across Canada, your neighbourhood Orkin Pros have an in-depth knowledge of the pest pressures in your local area. View all branches here or select your closest city from the menu below.
You may also like
Sniff Out Pests: Effective Odour Control Tips
Unpleasant scents can originate from many sources, some of which are outside your control. And eliminating the stench can be tough, as odours with an organic base are persistent and can linger long after the source is removed. In fact, 79% of cleaning professionals say removing odour is their biggest challenge!
Top 4 Tips For A Pest-Free Halloween
You may have been tricked by the plastic bats and fake spider webs in your neighbourhood, but the pests trying to make your house their home can be the scariest trick during Halloween. From rodents trying to trick or treat inside your home to flies trying to enjoy your jack-o’-lanterns, pests are always looking for ways to get into the Halloween spirit (and your home). Don’t worry, you’re not alone in trying to pest proof your home, as your Orkin Canada Pro has put together a list of 4 quick tips that will help you keep pests out this Halloween.
Practical Ways To Prevent Warm Weather Pests
Spring has arrived, and the pests are already starting to make their usual rounds. As they seek food, water and shelter, your home is like a bug and rodent oasis just waiting to be occupied. But nobody likes surprise invaders in their living space, which is why it’s crucial to recognize the most common threats and take action to prevent them.
Steps to Take After Fire Ant Bites
Known and feared for being aggressive when disturbed, fire ants pose a relatively recent threat in several Canadian provinces.
Remove pests from your home, and stop them from coming back
We work hard to listen, understand and assess your unique situation. Request a free, no-obligation estimate today for a customized pest program that fits your needs.
Request a Free Home EstimateRequest a Free Business Consultation