Flying ants have appeared in my home: what’s the best way to eliminate these pests and stop an infestation?

Discovering flying ants indoors can be alarming. While they may seem like just a nuisance, their presence could signal a bigger issue—especially if they turn out to be termites. Knowing how to identify, manage, and prevent these pests is key to protecting your home.

How to Identify Flying Ants

Before taking action, make sure you’re dealing with flying ants and not termites:

1. Body shape: Flying ants have narrow waists and bent antennae. Termites have straight bodies with straight antennae.
2. Wings: Flying ants’ front wings are larger than their back wings, while termites’ wings are all the same length.
3. Seasonal activity: Flying ants typically appear during warm, humid weather—often after rainfall.

Immediate Actions to Take

Once you spot flying ants indoors, act quickly to limit their spread:

1. Seal entry points: Check around windows, doors, and cracks, and close any gaps they may be using.
2. Eliminate food sources: Store food in sealed containers, wipe up crumbs and spills, and keep trash bins tightly closed.
3. Vacuum them up: Use a vacuum to remove visible ants right away. Empty the bag or canister outside.

Long-Term Solutions

To prevent the infestation from growing:

1. Set ant baits: Place bait stations in areas where ants are active. They’ll carry the poison back to the colony.
2. Use insecticide: Apply sprays around entryways, baseboards, or suspected nesting spots, carefully following label directions.
3. Call in professionals: If the problem persists or worsens, bring in a licensed pest control service to inspect and treat your home.

Preventing Future Infestations

Keep flying ants from returning with these preventive steps:

1. Keep your home clean: Regularly sweep, vacuum, and wipe surfaces to remove crumbs and spills.
2. Control moisture: Repair leaks and use dehumidifiers in damp areas, since ants are drawn to water sources.
3. Inspect regularly: Look for signs of ant activity, nests, or structural gaps, and seal any potential entry points.

Final Thoughts

Flying ants inside your home shouldn’t be ignored. Acting fast can stop a minor nuisance from turning into a costly problem. By identifying the pests correctly, removing immediate threats, and putting preventive measures in place, you can keep your home safe, comfortable, and ant-free.