Soaring temperatures have resulted in millions of pesky flying ants taking to the skies across the South East.
The phenomenon, known as 'flying ant day', takes place just once a year over a couple of days and is often spurred on by a sudden spell of hot weather.
While little is known about why fertile male and female ants choose warm periods to take to the skies, we do know that their purpose in doing so is to breed and begin new colonies.
The mini-migration has forced people across the region to shut their windows amid blistering temperatures in a bid to keep these pesky bugs out of their homes.
Thankfully, the migration is short-lived. After mating, female ants lose their wings and drop to the ground where they form brand-new colonies.
This short presence is still enough to wind people up, with many taking to Twitter to express their annoyance...
Flying ants everywhere, They're bloody gross. 🐜
— Craig (@Craig74Nov) July 18, 2022
known and beloved national holiday Flying Ant Day
— Skarfi! (@Pantone272) July 18, 2022
Apparently flying ants are out in force today cos clearly the weather being as hot as the devils arse crack today isn’t enough
— Laura Ann 🌈 (@iamlauraann_) July 18, 2022
According to experts, flying ants aren't dangerous as they cannot bite and are not poisonous - so apart from being a tad annoying you don't have anything to worry about!
