Latest news with #Blackhurst
Daily Mirror
07-07-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
UK households told to keep windows and doors shut as bug invades nation
The UK is set to be hit by an influx of flying ants this month in a phenomenon which is good for nature but potentially annoying for households 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. 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."
Wales Online
29-06-2025
- Climate
- Wales Online
Flying insects to swarm gardens in largest numbers seen in recent memory due to 'perfect storm'
Flying insects to swarm gardens in largest numbers seen in recent memory due to 'perfect storm' Flying Ant Day 2025 could see huge swarms of the insects taking to the skies due to the perfect mix of alternating wet and warm weather conditions, pest experts have warned Flying Ants (Image: Daily Mirror ) Pest authorities are sounding the alarm over an impending boom in flying ant numbers thanks to a weather pattern that brings alternating spells of rain and warmth. This year's Flying Ant Day – the annual phenomenon when myriads of ants with wings take over the skies for their mating ritual – might be one to remember for its sheer scale. Rentokil points out that the summer's fluctuating weather conditions, especially heightened humidity levels, have set the stage for increased swarming activity. A spokesperson from the company revealed: "In past years, radar systems have even mistaken these dense clouds of ants for rain." Paul Blackhurst, head of the Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, has chimed in with his expertise, stating: "Experts warn that this year could see larger-than-usual swarms of flying ants, as we approach Flying Ant Day, also known as the nuptial flight, and sometimes nicknamed 'flant day'." He further explains: "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 alternating wet and warm weather we have been experiencing recently is creating the perfect conditions for larger-than-usual swarms, as humidity is important in keeping the ants' wings and bodies moist during flight and 'mating on the wing'." Moreover, Blackhurst clarifies a common misconception by adding: "Despite the name, Flying Ant Day doesn't happen on a single fixed day each year. These swarming events can occur at different times across the country, depending on the weather, and in particular, temperature, humidity and wind.", reports Wales Online. "While you might see a few flying ants on most warm summer days, 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. On radar, these dense clouds of insects can even resemble rain. Article continues below "Though it may seem like a summertime nuisance, this swarming strategy is believed to help more ants survive by overwhelming their predators including swifts and gulls. "After mating mid-air, the male ants which are smaller will quickly fall to the ground and die. The newly fertilised female queens shed their wings and burrow into the soil to nest and start new colonies. "While flying ants might disrupt your picnic, barbecue, or pub garden pint, they play a vital role in the ecosystem by aerating soil, recycling nutrients, and serving as a key food source for birds." Here are some ant prevention tips for your home from the pest experts at Rentokil:. Block entry points into your home by sealing cracks and crevices around doors, windows and pipework. Sweep up food debris from under kitchen appliances and units. Clear up any food or liquid spillages immediately. Store your food in airtight containers wherever possible. If you have a pet, clear away any food that isn't eaten straight away. Make sure all rubbish bins have tightly sealed lids. Keeping windows and doors shut is one of the most effective methods of preventing flying insects from entering your home. Installing a fly screen will prevent flying ants from entering your home, whilst still leaving windows and doors open. Article continues below Use a strong detergent to remove any pheromone trails foraging ants have laid down to direct other ants to a food source.
