What is flying ant day?
Flying ants are the young queens and males of black garden ant colonies. When the weather is warm, humid and still, colonies across a wide area release them at about the same time so they can mate in flight. After mating, males die and the queens land, lose their wings and try to start new nests. Although it is called flying ant day, there are often several flying ant days through the summer, as different areas and colonies release their ants when conditions suit them.
Are flying ants harmful?
No. Flying ants do not sting and do not cause damage. They may bite if handled, but it is harmless. They are an important food for swifts, gulls and other birds.
What to do
- Close windows and doors on warm afternoons if ants are swarming nearby
- Vacuum or sweep up any that come indoors
- Avoid using sprays; the swarm will be over within hours
When it might mean a problem
If flying ants are coming out of a crack inside your home, such as from skirting boards, floor tiles or a wall, there may be a nest in or under the building. In that case, it is worth having it looked at. See ant control.
Questions and answers
How long does flying ant day last?
Each swarm usually lasts a few hours, though there can be several swarms over a few weeks in summer.
Do flying ants mean I have an ant nest?
Not necessarily. They can fly in from nests nearby. If they emerge from inside the house, there may be a nest under the floor.
Are flying ants termites?
No. The UK has no established termite problem in homes. Flying ants have a narrow waist and bent antennae.
Related pages
This page is general information, last reviewed on 19 October 2026. It is not a substitute for an on-site inspection.