How to Get Rid of Flying Ants

Whether on the ground or in the air, antscan be quite a nuisance. Most of us have had to engage with these pests at some point or other. The fact that they occur in great proportions adds to the distress they cause. Flying ants manifest when its time to mate. After the brief session is over the queen loses her wings, falls onto the ground and creates a new nest. If left unattended, they can gradually multiply and cause considerable damage wherever nested. They pose quite a challenge for homeowners because they can be difficult to detect. Colonies may not always be readily apparent yet they continue to quietly destroy your property. Following is a guide to help you get rid of these insects.

Step 1 - Inspect

The winged ant may manifest outdoors or inside your house. Carefully inspect the surrounding whenever you first sight them. This will help you determine exactly where they emerge from. Indoors, they tend to prefer moist or damp wooden places. Inspect areas near sinks, bathroom, leaky plumbing areas, window sills, porch or rafters beneath the roof. When they are limited in number, you can simply swat them with an object. Alternatively, spray with an aerosol ant spray.

Step 2 - Seal Entry Points

Ants will often find their way into the house through open windows, cracks and crevices. Use silicon caulk to seal all entry points to limit intrusion. Reinforce the sealing by spraying soapy water at identified entry points.

Step 3 - Locate the Nests

If you can trace the nest you stand a better chance of eliminating the ants. Sometimes several nests may exist. Use some gel bait to help you trace the nests. The ants that come out to feed on the bait are sure to carry some back to the nest. Be sure to trace the ants as they journey back to their nests. The bait will also help get rid of the queen and other ants in the colony. 

Step 4 - Apply Boric Acid

Spray boric acid into all entrance points you have identified. Spray around the entrances as well. This should get rid of most of the colony. 

Tips

• Carefully inspect your home and surrounding area for any ant colonies. Sprinkle a pesticide on the mounds to get rid of them. It will help limit the ants from showing up again. 
• Flying ants do not last around for long. It is best to eliminate them as soon as you see them.
• Proper lawn care can help control the presence of the winged ant. Do not leave tree stumps, broken branches, twigs or foliage lying around the yard. This will encourage ants to come and settle in the woody material. 
• Soapy water effectively eliminates the ants. Place in a spray bottle and use against the ants.
• The winged ant is attracted to sweet items. Store sweet attractants within the house like confectionery, honey and sugar out of the way. 
• Ants can be tricky to control. You are more certain to achieve good results if you employ a combination of strategies.