UK households told to keep windows and doors shut as bug invades nation

UK households are being urged to batten down the hatches as swarms of insects take to the skies.

Named Flying Ant Day, it's a natural phenomenon where millions of winged ants emerge from their nests for a mating frenzy. But how should Britons brace themselves?

In advice from The Guardian, experts advised: "Best to keep your doors, windows and mouth shut during the peak."

While it may seem counterintuitive to just put up with the influx, the experts emphasised that the flying ants are "an important food source" for birds, while their tunnelling habits also help improve soil quality.

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They further explained that the swarm is actually part of the ants' reproductive strategy. According to the experts, the swarming improves their chances of survival by overwhelming predators.

Best Ants UK has forecasted that "Flying Ant Day in 2025 is predicted to occur earlier than usual, with peak activity anticipated around 22 and 25 of July," reports Birmingham Live.

To avoid an insect invasion, residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed. For those seeking a breath of fresh air without the company of ants, installing a fly screen can offer a solution, allowing breezes in but keeping pests out.

Additionally, using a potent detergent to wipe out pheromone trails left by scout ants can prevent others from following the path to potential food sources within your home.

Paul Blackhurst, Technical Academy Head at Rentokil Pest Control's Technical Academy, has sounded the alarm about potential bumper swarms of flying ants set to invade British skies as the notorious Flying Ant Day draws near.

He highlighted the natural spectacle where myriads of winged ants emerge for a mating frenzy, saying: "Experts warn that this year could see larger-than-usual swarms of flying ants as we approach Flying Ant Day."

Blackhurst added: "This natural event, when vast numbers of winged ants, known as alates, take to the skies at once in search of mates from other colonies, could be one of the most prolific for years."

The pest control expert outlined how current climatic conditions foster perfect swarm settings, given the alternating wet and warm weather we have been experiencing recently. He explained that this because humidity is key in keeping the ants' wings and bodies moist while flying and "mating on the wing."

He warns of the sheer scale of these insect throngs: "Ideal weather conditions can trigger the appearance of tens of millions of them taking to the skies in massive swarms over several weeks across Britain."