Why are flying ants swarming around my pool?
Posted by Mosquito Squad
December 19, 2023
The unrelenting Texas heat is sending residents to their pools, but many are being met with droves of flying ants.
For many Texans, summer is synonymous with pool parties and relaxation by the water. Even more so this summer, as we are enduring record-setting heat. However, the enjoyment of a refreshing dip can be marred by the unwelcome presence of flying ants and mosquitoes. These tiny creatures, known as alates, emerge during the warm months and can quickly become a nuisance around pools and outdoor areas. Understanding why flying ants are bad and how to deal with them is crucial for maintaining a pest-free environment.
What has gotten flying ants on the move?
It’s biology! Flying ants are not a separate species; they are reproductive ants that take to the air during a brief period to mate and establish new colonies. In Texas, common ant species like fire ants and carpenter ants have winged reproductive individuals that participate in the nuptial flight. During this event, hundreds or even thousands of alates swarm around, attracted to light sources, which often include poolside areas illuminated during the evening. Their sheer numbers can be overwhelming, and their presence is enough to discourage anyone from enjoying a pleasant evening by the pool.
Are flying ants harmful?
They can be! Aside from being a general nuisance, flying ants can cause more significant problems when they come into contact with pool water. As they are attracted to light, they can be drawn into the pool and become trapped on the surface. Once they die, their bodies can create unsightly floating debris, leading to additional pool maintenance and cleaning efforts. Furthermore, some species of flying ants might possess a stinger, and while they rarely sting humans, a chance encounter could result in painful reactions, especially for individuals allergic to insect venom.
El Paso pest control for ants can help protect your pool area.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining a pest-free poolside environment, many El Paso residents turn to professional ant control services for assistance. Mosquito Squad has been keeping poolside oases safer from the threat of buzzing, biting, stinging pests since 2005. Our pest control technicians will identify areas in your yard, where ants are colonizing, and formulate a treatment to eliminate them.
Why put up with pests swarming around your pool if you don’t have to? Enlist Mosquito Squad for all your El Paso pest control needs. Fill out our form online or call us at (915) 800-0343 for a free quote.