Do Flying Ants Bite?
The flying ants seen across the UK each summer are black garden ants. Here's the truth about bites, stings and whether they're dangerous.
Short answer: UK flying ants can bite but almost never do, and their bite is harmless. They don't sting, aren't venomous, and pose no real danger to people or pets.
Can flying ants bite?
The common UK flying ant — the black garden ant — has jaws but they're tiny and weak. A bite from one is unlikely and, if it happens, usually produces nothing more than a mild, brief nip you may not even feel.
Do flying ants sting?
No. UK garden ants do not have a functional sting. They're sometimes confused with flying insects that do sting, such as wasps or flying ants of other species abroad.
Are flying ants dangerous?
No. They don't spread disease, don't damage your home (unlike termites), and are essentially a harmless seasonal nuisance. They're also a vital food source for birds.
How to treat a flying ant bite
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply a cold compress if it's itchy.
- Avoid scratching to prevent infection.