They Fly. They Bite. They Invade. Meet the Ants You Really Don’t Want Indoors

If you’ve ever spotted a winged insect inside and thought, “Is that a termite?” you’re not alone. But in many cases, it’s not termites you’re dealing with; it’s ants. 

Flying ants are a common warm-weather pest in Wisconsin, and if you’re wondering if ants can fly or if flying ants bite, the answer is yes on both counts. 

Here’s what you need to know about these airborne invaders, how to tell them apart from other pests, and what to do if they’ve made it indoors. 

What Are Flying Ants, and Why Are They Suddenly Everywhere? 

Flying ants aren’t a separate species. They’re reproductive ants called swarmers that grow wings for one purpose: to leave the colony and start a new one. 

You’ll usually see them in: 

• Large swarms near windows, doors, or lights 

• Sudden indoor appearances after rain 

• Early spring or mid-summer, depending on the region 

In places like Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and Hobart, these swarms usually happen during warmer, humid stretches. Once indoors, they often confuse homeowners and are sometimes mistaken for termites. 

Can Ants Fly? Yes. And Here’s Why That’s a Problem 

Not all ants fly, but when they do, it’s usually a warning sign. 

Flying ants inside your home could mean: 

• A mature colony exists nearby (inside walls, crawlspaces, or foundations). 

• They’ve found moisture-damaged wood or unsealed cracks. 

• A swarm is trying to form a new nest indoors. 

Seeing a single winged ant near a window might not mean trouble. But repeated sightings are a red flag. 

Do Flying Ants Bite? Some do, and it’s not pleasant. 

Most flying ants aren’t aggressive. But yes, some types do bite or sting, especially carpenter ants. While not venomous, their bites can cause discomfort, particularly for children or pets. 

What to watch for: 

• Red bumps or itching after handling or swatting ants 

• Flying ants near bedding, pet food, or kitchen areas 

• Swarms that focus around baseboards or foundation gaps 

If you’re seeing winged ants and feeling bites, you may have an indoor nest. 

How to Get Rid of Flying Ants and Keep Them Gone 

Step 1: Confirm It’s Not Termites 

Flying ants have bent antennae, pinched waists, and uneven wings. Termites have straight antennae and uniform wings. A pest expert can confirm the difference. 

Step 2: Eliminate the Colony, Not Just the Flyers 

Flying ants are just the symptom. Baits and targeted treatments are more effective than sprays, especially for carpenter ants. 

Step 3: Seal Up Entry Points 

Use caulk or weatherstripping around windows, doors, utility lines, and foundation cracks to block future swarms. 

Step 4: Dry Out Moisture Spots 

Fix plumbing leaks, use dehumidifiers, and ventilate attics and crawlspaces. Flying ants are often drawn to moisture-damaged areas. 

Step 5: Call for a Full Inspection 

If you’re in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, or Hobart, contact 1st Choice Pest Solutions. We find the nest, treat the source, and prevent future infestations. 

Homeowners Ask Us All the Time 

Can ants fly inside homes? 

Yes. When colonies grow large, reproductive ants develop wings and search for a new nesting site, which can include the inside of your home. 

Do flying ants bite or sting? 

Some do, especially carpenter ants. Their bite can cause mild pain and itching, but they’re not venomous. 

Are flying ants the same as termites? 

No. Flying ants and termites look similar but have different body shapes and wing sizes. A pest expert can tell you for sure. 

Should I worry about a few flying ants? 

One or two might not mean much. But repeated sightings could mean a colony is nearby, and it’s time to act. 

What’s the fastest way to get rid of flying ants? 

Professional baiting, colony removal, and sealing entry points. Sprays rarely fix the root problem. 

Flying Ants Aren’t Random. They’re a Sign. 

If you’re spotting winged ants in your home, especially near windows or walls, you’re likely seeing a colony trying to expand. These ants may fly, they may bite, and they can absolutely nest indoors if left unchecked. 

Call 1st Choice Pest Solutions today for expert ant inspection and control in Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, and Hobart. We’ll find the nest, treat it at the source, and make sure they don’t come back.