Brits warned to 'remove scent' from home as 'swarm of insects' sweep UK
UK households are being advised to "remove the scent" from their homes as swarms of flying ants are set to invade during the warmer weather. The annual ' flying ant day ' is making its return to Britain and Ireland.
Healthline advises: "Ants leave a scented pheromone trail behind when they walk. This acts as a map of food sources. Using glass cleaner may help remove the scent and deter the ants from re-entering your home. Mix glass cleaning spray with liquid detergent like dish soap into a clean spray bottle. Spray the mixture on areas where ants seem to enter from or congregate around."
The event sees winged black garden ants, Lasius niger, take to the skies for their 'nuptial flight', which is part of their mating process. Healthline further suggests: "After spraying, wipe down the area leaving a light residue. Repeat the above steps as often as needed."
'I clean five-star hotels for a living – real secret to sparkling floors is 20p'
The phenomenon usually happens in July or August when conditions are hot and humid with little wind, ideally around 25C, reports Birmingham Live. Good Housekeeping recommends: "Flying ants respond strongly to scent‐based disruption. So natural ingredients such as essential oils can be an excellent repellent. Mix water, a splash of dish soap and 5–10 drops of peppermint, rosemary or citronella essential oil.
"Spray around windows, doors, lights and damp areas to deter them." Meanwhile, the NHS reassures that ant bites are "generally harmless, although you'll probably feel a nip".
Recently, there's been a spike in internet searches for Flying Ant Day, hinting that UK households are observing more of these insects around.
A spokesperson from the RSB informed BBC News: "One of the primary findings from the survey was that there is certainly not one flying ant day; the frequency in which the flying ants appear changes every year and is dependent on weather."
They added: "One garden may see flying ants one day, with neighbours seeing them weeks or even months later." With temperatures rising in the upcoming week, reaching as high as 31°C, it's crucial to keep our living spaces as clean and organised as possible.
By doing so, it will stop unwanted guests from taking over and potentially hurting you. It might take some extra time from your schedules, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
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