The peak of flying ant day 2026 is expected within days, with experts predicting the main emergence between July 24 and 29. Entomologist Professor Adam Hart of the University of Gloucester explains the phenomenon, noting that flying ants are the reproductive males and potential new queens that leave the nest to mate and establish new colonies.
What Causes Flying Ant Day?
The Royal Society of Biology (RSB) explains that flying ant day occurs when males and new queens leave the nest to mate, often on the same day when conditions are right. However, the RSB's Flying Ant Survey found that there is not a single day; ants can emerge throughout summer, with 96% of days between June and September seeing flying ants. Key triggers include temperatures above 13°C, wind speeds below 6.3 m/s, and ideally calm, warm conditions above 25°C.
When Is Flying Ant Day 2026?
While the RSB does not predict exact dates, other sources provide estimates. Country Living suggests July 20-25, while Best Ants UK predicts the main peak between July 24 and 29, with a smaller secondary swarm around August 2. Best Ants UK notes that an early flight occurred in late May due to a heatwave, involving 11-17% of ants, but the remaining 83-89% of queens are expected during the main peak.
Are Flying Ants Harmful?
Professor Hart assures that flying ants are completely harmless and beneficial for the environment. They aerate soil, recycle nutrients, and serve as excellent bird food. He advises enjoying the spectacle, as it typically lasts only a couple of hours in late afternoon, and may not return for weeks or even a year if weather is poor.
How Do Ants Mate?
The RSB describes that after mating in flight, the male dies, and the fertilised female lands, chews off her wings, and begins a new colony. Flying ants do not swarm like honeybees but appear everywhere in large numbers.
