Overview

• Experts warn this year’s swarms could rank among the largest on record after initial flights were spotted in cities from June 29.
• Best Ants UK forecasts peak activity between July 22 and 25, marking an earlier-than-usual nuptial flight window.
• Flying ants take to the air only when temperatures exceed 13°C, winds drop below 6.3 m/s and humidity keeps their wings moist.
• Households are urged to seal windows and doors, install fly screens and remove food sources to prevent invasions during peak flights.
• Despite their nuisance, flying ants are harmless and boost ecosystems by aerating soil and feeding birds before queens found new colonies.