LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Swarms of flying ants have been appearing across Kentucky, and a University of Kentucky entomologist says the phenomenon is tied to recent weather conditions.
Ants are typically found on the ground near their anthills, but the insects have grown wings and are appearing in swarms across the state.
“When ants are winged, that means they’ve entered a reproductive phase,” said Dr. Jonathan Larson, an entomologist at the University of Kentucky.
What is a nuptial flight?
When new queens and males from a colony are ready, they grow wings and fly out in a swarm to mate — a process known as a nuptial flight…