The annual ‘flying ant day’ phenomenon is set to return to Britain as warmer weather persists – households have been warned to ‘remove the scent’ from their homes
UK households have been urged to “eliminate fragrances” from their properties ahead of flying ant swarms descending across the nation.
The yearly ‘flying ant day’ spectacle is poised to hit Britain and Ireland once again as mild temperatures continue.
Healthline explains: “Ants leave a scented pheromone trail behind when they walk.
“This acts as a map of food sources. Using glass cleaner may help remove the scent and deter the ants from re-entering your home.
“Mix glass cleaning spray with liquid detergent like dish soap into a clean spray bottle. Spray the mixture on areas where ants seem to enter from or congregate around.”
Throughout this annual occurrence, masses of winged black garden ants burst forth from their colonies for a ‘nuptial flight’, representing their mating period.
Healthline continued: “After spraying, wipe down the area leaving a light residue. Repeat the above steps as often as needed.”, reports Birmingham Live.
This phenomenon usually takes place during July or August, thriving in sweltering and muggy weather with minimal breezes, optimally at approximately 25C.
Good Housekeeping notes: “Flying ants respond strongly to scent‐based disruption. So natural ingredients such as essential oils can be an excellent repellent.
“Mix water, a splash of dish soap and 5–10 drops of peppermint, rosemary or citronella essential oil.
“Spray around windows, doors, lights and damp areas to deter them.”
The NHS confirms that ant bites are “generally harmless, although you’ll probably feel a nip”.
In recent days, online searches for ‘Flying Ant Day’ have surged, indicating that UK homes are observing an increase in activity.
A spokesperson for the RSB previously informed the BBC News team: “One of the primary findings from the survey was that there is certainly not one flying ant day; the frequency in which the flying ants appear changes every year and is dependent on weather.”
They further commented: “One garden may see flying ants one day, with neighbours seeing them weeks or even months later.”
