Ants with Wings: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever noticed ants with wings in your home or business, you might feel concerned or even confused. Are they just regular ants, or could it be something more serious like termites? Are they a harmless seasonal nuisance, or do they signal a larger problem? These winged ants may seem small, but they can indicate something much bigger.

At Rodent Solutions and Pest Control, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses in Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Parrish, Sarasota, and surrounding areas deal with pest problems quickly and effectively.

What Are Ants with Wings?

Ants with wings, commonly known as “swarming ants,” are reproductive members of an ant colony. These ants, called alates, are the queens and male ants responsible for starting new colonies. Swarming usually occurs when conditions are ideal for mating, often in warm and humid weather.

Why Do Ants Develop Wings?

Not all ants in a colony have wings. The worker ants you see crawling around your home or business are wingless. However, when the colony reaches maturity, it produces winged ants to ensure the survival of the species.

After they reach maturity, these ants fly out of the nest to mate during a “nuptial flight.” After mating, male ants typically die, and fertilized females search for a place to start a new colony.

How to Tell the Difference Between Winged Ants and Termites

One of the biggest concerns when you see ants with wings is whether they might actually be termites. Termites can cause significant structural damage, so it’s essential to distinguish between the two. Here are some key differences:

Wing Shape

• Ants: Winged ants have two pairs of wings, with the front wings being larger than the back wings.
• Termites: Termites have wings of equal size.

Body Shape

• Ants: Winged ants have a pinched or narrow waist.
• Termites: Termites have a straight, broad waist.

Antennae

• Ants: Their antennae are bent or elbow-shaped.
• Termites: Termites have straight antennae.

If you’re still unsure, it’s best to call a professional. At Rodent Solutions and Pest Control, we can tell if you have ants or termites. We will provide the right solution for you.

Are Ants with Wings Dangerous?

While winged ants themselves aren’t harmful, they can be a red flag for bigger issues.

Structural Damage from Carpenter Ants

Certain species of ants, like carpenter ants, can cause significant structural damage. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood but hollow it out to create their nests. Over time, this can weaken wooden structures, walls, or furniture. This can lead to significant costs in repairs.

Health Concerns

While ants are not known to spread diseases, they can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria. This can particularly concern homes with small children or pets and in businesses like restaurants or food prep areas.

Reputation Risks for Businesses

If you own a business, especially one that cares about customer experience, ants can damage your reputation. This is particularly true for restaurants and stores. Customers may see them and question the cleanliness or professionalism of your establishment.

Why Do Ants with Wings Appear in Your Home or Business?

Ants with wings appear during specific conditions that make mating and colony expansion possible. Here are the most common reasons:

Warm, Humid Weather

Swarming ants are most active in warm, humid conditions, making Florida’s climate a prime spot for this phenomenon.

Access to Moisture

Ants are drawn to damp areas, such as leaking pipes, basements, or spaces with poor ventilation. Fixing these issues can go a long way in preventing an infestation.

Food Availability

Ants are opportunistic feeders. They’ll stick around if they find crumbs, open food containers, or pet food left out.

Mature Colonies Nearby

The presence of winged ants means there’s likely a mature colony nearby. The colony could be inside of your property or outside in your yard.

How to Get Rid of Ants with Wings

If you’ve spotted ants with wings, don’t ignore them. Here’s what you can do:

DIY Solutions to Try

• Seal Entry Points: Use caulk to seal cracks in walls, around windows, and under doors. This prevents ants from entering your home or business.
• Clean Up Food Sources: Wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and store food in airtight containers.
• Address Moisture Issues: Fix leaks, ensure proper drainage, and use dehumidifiers in damp areas.

While these steps can help, they’re often not enough to tackle the root of the problem.

Why Professional Help Is Essential

Ants with wings often indicate a larger infestation. A professional pest control company like Rodent Solutions and Pest Control can:

• Identify the type of ant and whether they pose a structural threat.
• Find the colony, even if it’s hidden behind walls or underground.
• Use safe, targeted treatments to eliminate the ants and prevent future infestations.

Why Choose Rodent Solutions and Pest Control?

At Rodent Solutions and Pest Control, we provide fast, effective, and eco-friendly pest control solutions. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Tailored Plans: We create customized pest control plans based on your specific needs, whether for a home or business.
• Eco-Friendly Solutions: Our methods are safe for families, pets, and the environment.
• Local Expertise: We know Florida’s pests and how to handle them. We proudly serve Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Parrish, Sarasota, and surrounding areas.

Preventing Winged Ants in the Future

Once we’ve helped you get rid of ants with wings, prevention becomes key. Here’s how you can keep them from coming back:

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Routine pest control visits catch issues before they become major problems.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Keep food stored securely, take out the trash frequently, and avoid leaving dishes in the sink.
• Repair Structural Issues: Fix leaks, replace damaged wood, and seal cracks to reduce entry points and moisture levels.

For ultimate peace of mind, consider signing up for our recurring pest control services.

Call Rodent Solutions and Pest Control Today

If you’ve spotted ants with wings, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. At Rodent Solutions and Pest Control, we’re here to help. Whether you’re in Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Parrish, Sarasota, or nearby areas, we can handle your pest control needs.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We will help you eliminate those pesky ants with wings and protect your home or business for the long term!