Winged Ant (Ant Alate)

Found globally; alates emerge from established underground or wood-nesting colonies to start new colonies in soil or decaying wood.

Does not typically feed during the mating flight; adult ants otherwise consume nectar, seeds, other insects, or honeydew.

Alates are reproductive males and queens that emerge in large numbers (swarming) during humid conditions to mate. After mating, males die and females shed their wings to seek a nesting site.

Generally harmless to humans but can indicate a nearby nest. If found indoors in large numbers, it may indicate a carpenter ant infestation which can cause structural damage, otherwise they are essential for soil aeration and nutrient cycling.