Need pest help? Save $50 on your first recurring service today with code GET50

Flying Ant Facts and Information

Flying Ants are Called Alates

The majority of ants are wingless. However, at certain times of the year, swarms of flying ants become a common sight. These winged ants often are called alates, swarmers or reproductives. Winged ants have elbowed antennae, thin waists constricted at the thorax and hind wings smaller than their front wings. This helps distinguish them from another insect that produces winged individuals, termites. Winged termites have straight antennae, broad waists and wings that are equal in length.

Females Larger than Males

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 female 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 afterward.

Flying Ants in the Home

When winged ants are found within a home, it is likely that a colony has already been established or entered through an opening like an open window. A pest control professional should be contacted to treat any ant infestation.

Resources

Ants Home Protection

Wood Ants

Carpenter Ant Infestation in the House

Q

Large carpenter ant infestations can cause structural damage to your home. Make sure your home is protected from carpenter ants with Orkin.

Do Carpenter Ants Bite? | Ant Pest Control

How to Identify Carpenter Ant Infestation

Ant Exterminator - How To Identify & Get Rid Of Ants

Ant illustration

How to Get Rid of Ants in Walls | Ant Control

How to Identify & Get Rid of Sugar Ants

Image coming soon

How to Identify & Get Rid of Thief Ants

Thief ant illustration

How to Identify & Get Rid of Odorous Ants

Odorous ant illustration

Little Black Ants | Tiny Black Ants In Your House

Black ant illustration

Connect with Us

Our customer care team is available for you 24 hours a day.

877-819-5061

Find a Branch

Our local Pros are the pest experts in your area.

Get a Personalized Quote

We will help you find the right treatment plan for your home.

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlPrevent and Protect

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

© 2024 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementCareers

Your Branch  

Call Now