Flying Ants in Anaheim, CA

In the hot summer months, it's not uncommon to see swarms of flying ants in Anaheim, CA. If you're like most people, your first reaction might be to panic or reach for the bug spray. But before you do, it's important to understand what these winged insects are and why they're suddenly appearing in your backyard. 

Can Ants Fly?

For most ant species, male ants and fertile female ants can fly. Once the breeding season is over, the female ants shed their wings and cannot fly anymore. Male ants die shortly after mating. This explains why these flying ants seemingly appear out of nowhere!

Types of Ants With Wings

Not all ant species have wings during their breeding season, but most of the common ones you see on a daily basis do! Ants with wings are actually called alates, and here are a few of the common species that have them:

• Carpenter ants
• Fire ants
• Flying ants
• Harvester ants
• Leafcutter ants

While the sound of a flying red ant sounds alarming, it is very unlikely for you to get bitten by one while they are swarming. However, if you're dealing with a fire ant infestation, make sure you call a local Anaheim ant control company as soon as possible.

Why Do Flying Ants Suddenly Appear?

Flying ants suddenly appear because flying is a part of the reproductive process of ant colonies. As previously mentioned, flying ants are actually winged male and female ants that are tasked with mating and creating new colonies. This process typically occurs once a year when conditions are favorable, usually in the spring or summer. When the weather is warm and humid, and there is a good food supply, flying ants will emerge from their original colony en masse to find a mate and start a new colony. While the sudden appearance of swarms of flying ants can be alarming, it is a natural and necessary part of the ant life cycle.

Flying Ants vs Termites

Flying ants and termites may seem similar, but there are some key differences to be aware of:

• Body shape: Flying ants have a narrow waist and elbowed antennae, while termites have a straight waist and straight antennae.
• Wings: Flying ants have front wings that are larger than their back wings, while termites have wings that are all the same size.
• Behavior: Flying ants are often seen swarming in large groups, while termites tend to be more solitary.
• Habitat: Flying ants are typically found outside, while termites can often be found in the walls or foundation of a building.

It's important to be able to tell the difference between these two types of insects, as termites can cause significant damage to a home if left untreated.

How to Get Rid of Flying Ants

Getting rid of flying ants is the same as getting rid of any other ant infestation. Here are a few things you can try before calling an exterminator:

• Identify the source of the infestation and eliminate it. This could be anything from wet wood to unkempt gardens.
• Use ant traps or baits to lure the ants away from your home.
• Apply insecticide to the affected areas around your home.
• Keep your home clean and free of food debris to deter ants from returning.
• Seal any cracks or openings in walls and windows to prevent more ants from entering. 

Call the bugman for Anaheim Ant Control

If you're struggling with an ant infestation in Anaheim, it's time to call the bugman! Ants may appear harmless, but they can quickly become a nuisance as they invade your living space. Attempting to get rid of them yourself can be ineffective and tiresome. Instead, rely on the expertise of the bugman who can identify the type of ant causing the infestation and provide an effective solution. Don't let ants take over your home, call the bugman today for ant control in Anaheim today.