Ant alate (Winged Ant)

Nests in soil, wood, or leaf litter; alates emerge during swarming seasons to find new colony locations.

Varies by species; typically liquid-based foods, such as nectar, honeydew, and other insects.

Alates are the reproductive members of a colony. They participate in 'nuptial flights' where they swarm to mate. After mating, males die and females shed their wings to start new colonies as queens.

Generally harmless to humans though some species can sting. They are beneficial to the ecosystem through soil aeration and decomposition, but large numbers indoors may indicate a nearby nesting site.