Flying ants invade Ireland as heatwave brings the chaos
Although the mating season, known as 'Flying Ant Day', isn't usually until the end of July and early August, thousands of critters have already descended on the nation.
While they are unlikely to bite or cause much harm, they can quickly become a nuisance. Thousands of flying ants are swarming Ireland as the hot weather makes the perfect environment. Pic: Getty Images
Environmental science expert Aidan O'Hanlon said that we should stay inside when we start to see the ants descending.
'They can seem annoying but ants are ecologically essential.
'They provide aeration in soil through their nesting behaviour and serve as a bonanza food source for birds, spiders, wasps and other insects in the summer when the ants swarm in huge numbers.
'Some ants can sting but most species in Ireland have no functional stinger and are only interested in mating with each other. The ants can become quite clumsy and will land on people but it is nothing to worry about.'
As the heatwave kick continues, it provides the perfect humidity for the bugs' mating season. Flying ants are consistently the bane of summer as they always seem to descend on your home or favourite spots at the worst times. Pic: Getty Images
Warmer weather also brings with it some danger if you plan on hitting the beach.
The man o'war is closely related to jellyfish and can cause a painful sting if contact is made with one of its tentacles – and can even be fatal for some allergy sufferers.
The creature used to be a rarity in Irish waters but is becoming more common due to warming waters and south-westerly currents. Beachgoers are asked to be cautious for any that are washed up – they can still sting up to three days later. People making the most of the sunshine at Burrow Beach in Dublin this week. Pic: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie
Dogs Trust has reminded owners to be extra careful with man's best friend – as dogs cannot cool themselves down in the same way as humans.
Special care is advised for owners of young puppies, older dogs or those with a bit of extra weight, who are at extra risk of heatstroke.
Common signs of heatstroke with our furry friends are uncoordinated movements or collapse, altered or loss of consciousness, loss of vision, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, coma or bleeding.
Niamh Curran Kelly, Veterinary and Welfare Manager at Dogs Trust Ireland, said: 'If you think your dog may be suffering from heatstroke, please do not delay in contacting a local vet. It is vital you do this as quickly as you can to give your dog the best chance of making a recovery.' Dogs Trust is warning owners to be extra vigilant with their pets in warmer weather as their risk of heat stroke increases. Pic: Fran Veale
'While driving to the vet, drive with the windows down or air conditioning on – this should help to reduce your dog's core temperature,' said Ms Kelly.
Ciara Byrne, Head of Communications, at Dogs Trust, recommended that owners bring dogs on their walk in the morning, before the day's peak temperature. She also recommended taking water if you are bringing your dog out.
She added: 'If you'll be walking on tarmac, try the 'five-second test'; if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws.'
The charity also stressed that you should never leave your dog in the car – even if the windows are open and it's parked in the shade. They warn that the temperature can increase by as much as 11°C in ten minutes – just a few minutes in this heat can be fatal for your dog.
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