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Winged Ants

The majority of ants are wingless. However, throughout the spring and summer seasons, swarms of winged ants become a common sight. Winged ants have elbowed antennae, thin waists constricted at the thorax and hind wings smaller than their front wings.

All ant species include three castes: queens, males and workers. Female winged ants are larger than male winged ants. Worker ants, or infertile female ants, are commonly seen crawling and foraging for food. Some species of ants have winged worker ants, while other species do not. There can be thousands of winged ants in one established colony.

All ant species live in colonies established by fertile females, or queens. Winged queen ants and males typically swarm after a day of heavy rain in a particular season. Queens begin as winged ants, and usually shed their wings after mating. Reproductive males die soon afterwards.

When winged ants are found within a home, it is likely that a colony has already been established. In order to avoid damage to wooden structures and walls, a pest control professional should be contacted to treat any ant infestation.