Residents often encounter flying ants during warm, humid months, especially after rainstorms. But why do ants suddenly sprout wings and take to the air?

Winged ants, called alates, are the reproductive members of a colony. They swarm in a phenomenon known as a nuptial flight, which allows males and females to mate and start new colonies. After mating, the males typically die, while fertilized females shed their wings and look for places to establish nests.

If you’re seeing flying ants indoors, it usually means there’s an active colony nearby—and they’re looking for new territory.

Why Are Flying Ants in My House?

Flying ants often enter homes searching for:

Warmth and light (especially near windows and lamps)

Food sources, including sugary spills and crumbs

Shelter to start a new nest

If you’re finding large numbers of winged ants indoors or around your pool, it could be a sign of a nest inside your home or very close to it.

How to Get Rid of Flying Ants

1. Identify the Source

The first step is to pinpoint where the ants are coming from. Inspect along windows,  doors, and your home’s foundation. Look for trails or small piles of sawdust, which can indicate carpenter ants nesting in wood.

2. Vacuum Them Up

One of the quickest ways to remove flying ants without chemicals is to vacuum them as you see them. Use a hose attachment to reach corners and ceilings. Immediately empty the vacuum canister or dispose of the bag outside.

3. Use Soap and Water Spray

Mix water with a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray directly on flying ants. The soapy solution breaks down their protective outer layer and kills them on contact.

4. Set Traps and Baits

Ant baits work by luring worker ants, which then carry the poison back to the colony, eliminating it over time.

Sticky traps can be placed near windows, doors, and other entry points to catch ants as they come in.

Preventing Future Flying Ant Infestations

Once you get rid of flying ants, prevention is key. Try this three-step approach:

Seal Entry Points

Use caulk or weather stripping to close cracks around doors, windows, and foundations. Check for gaps where pipes and cables enter the home.

Regular Cleaning

Sweep and vacuum regularly, especially in the kitchen and dining areas. Wipe down counters after meals. Store food in sealed containers and take out the trash frequently.

Monitor and Inspect

Check periodically for ant trails, sawdust piles, or other signs of ant activity. Early detection makes controlling ants much easier.

Natural Remedies for Flying Ants

If you prefer a chemical-free approach, these natural methods can help:

Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around entry points and where you’ve seen ants. It dehydrates and kills them over time.

Essential Oils: Peppermint, tea tree, and lemon oils repel ants. Mix a few drops with water and spray along baseboards, windows, and doors.

Vinegar Solution: Combine equal parts white vinegar and water. Spray around entry points to disrupt scent trails and deter ants.

When to Call a Professional Exterminator

If you’ve tried these solutions and still find flying ants inside, or if you suspect a nest within your walls, it’s time to call a licensed pest control expert. Professionals have: Tools to locate hidden nests Treatments to eliminate colonies safely and thoroughly Expertise to prevent future infestations

Conclusion

While flying ants can be startling, they don’t have to take over your home. With the right mix of removal techniques, prevention strategies, and professional support when needed, you can keep your home free of swarming ants all season long.