Ireland is set to see a flying ant invasion as insects swarm to homes and businesses over the coming weeks.
The period in late July and early August will see insects emerging from their nests to mate.
As this begins, people will see more infestations in their homes.
Pest control provider Rentokil recorded a 30 per cent increase in callouts for ants in July 2021 when compared to May of the same year.
During the July and August period, people may notice an increase in activity from winged ants around their homes and businesses.
Dublin has experienced the highest level of callouts for ants so far this year, accounting for 40 per cent of all ant callouts in 2022.
Galway saw 18 per cent of ant callouts, followed by Cork (8%) and Kildare (6%).
The phenomenon occurs during a period in the summer months when flying ants leave the nest to reproduce and start a new colony.
Swarms of flying ants from multiple colonies conjoin to breed mid-air. This is believed to be due to the temperature, humidity and wind conditions being just right for them.
Richard Faulkner, Advanced Technical Field Consultant for Rentokil, said: "Late July and early August is when we see this phenomenon occur. While it is often labelled as 'flying ant day', it is in reality an extended period of time where we see increased activity from the insects.
"Ants can enter a premise in search of food and while ant infestations don't present a danger to inhabitants, they can be a nuisance, and a small problem can quickly become a large one.
"If they find a food source, ants can lay down a pheromone trail which attracts other ants to the area."
Thankfully there are a few steps people can take to discourage the presence of ants on their premises.
These include:
- Clear up any food or liquid spillages immediately.
- Sweep up any food crumbs from under your kitchen appliances and units.
- Store your food in airtight containers wherever possible.
- If you have a pet, clear away any food that isn't eaten straight away.
- In the garden, keep your compost enclosed and make sure all rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids.
- Seal cracks and crevices around doors and window frames
- Keeping windows and doors shut is one of the most effective methods of preventing flying insects from entering your home or business
- Installing a fly screen will prevent flying ants from entering your home whilst leaving windows and doors open
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