When you encounter ants with wings, understand they are not a distinct species. These winged insects are a specific stage in the life cycle of many common ant species. Their presence is a natural, seasonal occurrence, typically linked to reproduction and the expansion of their colonies.
Winged Ants Explained
Winged ants are the reproductive members of an ant colony, known as alates, which include both virgin queens and male ants. These specialized ants develop wings specifically for a crucial event called a nuptial flight. This aerial rendezvous is essential for reproduction and the establishment of new colonies.
During the nuptial flight, male ants, typically smaller in size, and larger female ants, or virgin queens, emerge from their parent nests. They take to the air, sometimes in large swarms, to mate with individuals from different colonies. This strategy promotes genetic diversity. After mating, the male ants typically die within a few days to a week.
Fertilized female ants then seek a suitable location to start a new colony. Once they find a spot, they shed their wings, often by chewing them off, and begin to dig a new nest. The queen uses stored sperm from the nuptial flight to lay her first batch of eggs, which she cares for until they hatch into worker ants. These worker ants then take over foraging and nest duties, allowing the queen to focus solely on laying eggs for many years.
Ants Versus Termites
Distinguishing between winged ants and winged termites is necessary, as their presence can indicate different situations for a homeowner. While both insects can appear as winged swarmers, key physical characteristics help to tell them apart.
A primary difference lies in their antennae: winged ants have elbowed antennae, while winged termites have straight antennae that often appear beaded. Examining the insect’s waist provides another distinction. Ants have a narrow, pinched waist between their thorax and abdomen. Termites, however, have a broader, more uniform waist.
Their wings also differ. Winged ants have two pairs of wings, with the front pair longer than the hind pair. Termites, on the other hand, have two pairs of wings that are equal in length. Additionally, termite wings are often quite fragile and can be shed easily, so finding discarded wings of equal length can be a sign of termite activity.
What to Do When You See Them
Seeing winged ants outdoors is a normal part of their life cycle and generally no cause for concern. These swarming events are natural. However, when winged ants appear indoors, often suggests the presence of an established ant colony inside your home.
If you observe a few winged ants indoors, they might be strays that entered from outside. If you notice large numbers, recurring appearances, or find discarded wings, it can indicate a more significant issue. The presence of winged ants indoors, particularly carpenter ants, signals an existing colony within wall voids or structural timbers. While most flying ants are not harmful to humans, certain species like carpenter ants can cause structural damage by excavating wood for nesting.
In cases of persistent indoor sightings, large numbers, or any suspicion of wood damage, contact a pest control professional. They can identify the insect and assess the extent of infestation. Addressing the issue promptly prevents further problems.