Winged black ants often appear at certain times of the year, leading homeowners to question their identity and potential threat. Understanding these insects is important for recognizing their behavior and determining if they are a cause for concern.
Understanding Winged Ants
“Black ants with wings” are not a distinct species. They are reproductive members of an existing ant colony, often called alates or swarmers. These individuals are male or virgin queen ants that develop wings for a temporary purpose. Most ants within a colony are wingless workers, sterile females responsible for foraging and nest maintenance.
The development of wings in alates signifies a mature ant colony ready to expand. Both winged male and female ants emerge from their parent colony. Winged female ants are generally larger than their male counterparts. These winged forms carry the genetic material to establish new colonies.
Distinguishing Winged Ants from Termites
Winged ants are often mistaken for termites, which can cause structural damage. However, several key visual differences distinguish them. Winged ants possess a distinct, pinched waist that separates their thorax and abdomen, giving them a segmented appearance. Termites, in contrast, have a broad, uniform waist, making their body appear more tube-like.
Their antennae also differ. Winged ants have elbowed antennae, which bend at an angle. Termites, conversely, have straight, bead-like antennae.
Their wings are another distinguishing feature. Both insects have four wings, but winged ants have front wings noticeably larger than their hind wings. Termite swarmers, on the other hand, have four wings of equal size and length. Additionally, while ants can vary in color, termites are often paler, appearing translucent or creamy white.
The Purpose of Wings
Ants develop wings for a reproductive event known as a “nuptial flight” or mating swarm. This is the primary reason winged ants appear, often in large numbers. During a nuptial flight, both male and virgin queen alates leave their crowded parent colonies to mate. This aerial mating ritual ensures genetic diversity by allowing individuals from different colonies to interbreed.
Environmental conditions, such as warm, humid days often following rainfall, typically trigger these flights. After mating, male ants generally die shortly thereafter. The fertilized queen ants then land, shed their wings, and seek a suitable location to start a new colony. The queen will then lay eggs, with the first brood developing into worker ants, establishing the new colony.
When Winged Ants Become a Concern
The presence of a few winged ants outdoors, especially during warmer months, is a natural part of their reproductive cycle and is generally not a cause for concern. However, if winged ants are observed indoors in significant numbers, it can indicate a more established ant colony either within or very close to the structure. This situation suggests that a mature ant nest is producing reproductive individuals inside your home.
Certain species, such as carpenter ants, can create nests in wood, which, while not consumed, can still lead to structural damage over time. If you notice numerous winged ants emerging from specific points indoors, like walls, baseboards, or near damp wood, it is advisable to investigate further. In such cases, or if the presence of winged ants is persistent and widespread indoors, consulting a pest control professional can help identify the species and determine the extent of any potential infestation.