Introduction
Flying ants can be a major nuisance during the warm summer months. Not only can they disrupt outdoor gatherings, but they can also enter homes and create infestations. This can be even more worrying during a pandemic when avoiding too much contact with the outdoors is essential for our well-being. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent flying ants from entering our outdoor space and get rid of those that are already there. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the best ways to get rid of flying ants outside.
Identifying Flying Ants
The most important step to getting rid of flying ants is being able to identify them correctly. Flying ants are a type of ant with wings, but they are not the same as other flying insects like wasps or flies. They have a slender body, thin antennae and a pair of long, slender wings. Their wingspan is usually around 5 to 8 millimeters long and they are usually black or dark brown in color. It is important to identify them correctly not only to prevent ant bites, but also to ensure that the right methods are used to get rid of them.
Preventative Measures
The best way to get rid of flying ants outside is to prevent them from entering in the first place. Before the start of summer, it is important to seal any cracks or openings in the walls of your home or shed. Flying ants are attracted to food, so it is important to keep all food items in airtight containers. Furthermore, storing pet food, garbage cans, and bird feeders in a secure area away from home is also recommended. Lastly, it is important to keep lawns free of debris and leaves, as these can provide nesting grounds for ants.
Removal
Once flying ants have entered the outdoor space, they need to be removed in order to prevent infestations. The first and most effective way to get rid of flying ants outside is to use an ant killer spray specifically designed for outdoor use. These sprays contain various insecticides that can be used to quickly kill flying ants. It is important to ensure that the insecticide is safe to use around pets and children, and that the directions are followed correctly. Once the ants have been killed, the area should be cleaned to prevent the re-infestation of the ants.
Traps
Traps are another effective way to get rid of flying ants outside. These traps work by attracting ants with a lure and trapping them inside the trap. The best traps for flying ants are ones that utilize pheromone lures, as these are especially effective in attracting ants. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and to keep the trap away from pets and small children.
Biological Control
Biological control refers to the use of natural predators to help get rid of pests. In the case of flying ants, this means introducing natural predators like ladybugs, ground beetles, and lacewings into the area. These predators eat the flying ants and help to get rid of them without any need for pesticides. To ensure the safety of pets and children, it is important to make sure the predators are kept away from them.
Exclusion
Exclusion is a method of preventing flying ants from entering a space by using physical barriers or nets. This can be done by installing fine mesh screens on windows and doors or using caulk to seal any gaps or cracks in walls. It is also important to make sure that all potential nesting sites like tree stumps, rocks, and bushes are moved away from the home. This will help to ensure that flying ants don’t enter the home or outdoor space.
Light and Odor Repellents
Light and odor repellents are a popular way to get rid of flying ants outside. These repellents work by emitting a loud, high pitched noise or an unpleasant odor that makes flying ants flee the area. Although these methods can be effective, they should be used with caution as they may irritate or scare away other beneficial insects like bees or butterflies.
Closing up Entry Points
Another way to get rid of flying ants outside is by closing up any potential entry points. This includes door frames, window frames and other small openings around the home. Caulk or foam sealants can be used to seal up these entrances and prevent flying ants from entering. If any of these entrances has been damaged, it is important to repair it as soon as possible to ensure that the ants don’t get inside.
Repelling Solutions
Another way to get rid of flying ants outside is to use repellent solutions. These solutions usually contain natural or synthetic compounds that deter the ants by making them flee the area. A variety of repellent solutions are available on the market, and they usually come in the form of sprays, gels, or granules. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and to make sure that the solution is safe to use around pets and children.
Dragonfly Larvae
Dragonfly larvae, also known as “mosquito hawks”, can be an effective way to get rid of flying ants outside. Dragonfly larvae feed on small insects like gnats, mosquitoes, and flies and can also help to reduce the population of flying ants. Dragonfly larvae are available for purchase at most garden centers or online, and they should be released into the area where the ants are located. They can be used safely around pets and children, and they will not harm beneficial insects like bees or butterflies.
Boric Acid
Boric acid is a powder that can be used to get rid of flying ants outside. This powder is a natural insecticide that can be sprinkled around the home or used as a spray to kill ants. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and to ensure that the powder is being used in a safe and effective way. Furthermore, it is important to keep the powder away from pets and children to ensure their safety.
Chemical Sprays
Chemical sprays are also a popular way to get rid of flying ants. These sprays contain powerful insecticides that can quickly kill flying ants. However, it is important to ensure that the insecticide is safe to use around pets and children and that the directions are followed correctly. Furthermore, it is important to keep the spray away from beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Conclusion
Getting rid of flying ants outside can be a tricky task, but with the right measures it is possible to keep them away from your home and outdoor space. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the best ways to get rid of flying ants outside, from preventative measures to chemical solutions. It is important to identify flying ants correctly, use the right methods, and keep the space clean to ensure that they stay away.
