What happens after ant flying day?

Discussion in 'Pests, Diseases and Cures' started by BB3, Jul 18, 2024.

  1. AnniD

    AnniD Gardener

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    I don't think it's a particularly new thing @smallkernowgarden, I remember seeing seagulls wheeling around at flying ants time years ago.
    It seems to be a fairly recent phenomenon where they actually land on the ground to eat the ants, I've only seen it in the last few years having lived here for over 35.
    Maybe they've discovered it's easier.

    This from BBC Countryfile around 11 years ago.
    "You may have heard reports of gulls eating so many flying ants that it makes them 'drunk'? Gulls often eat large quantities of these ants when they swarm, and the ants contain formic acid. Consuming a lot of formic acid can affect the seagulls' behaviour, making them seem disoriented or drunk. This phenomenon has been observed, particularly during mass swarming events.
    However, according to some experts, including entomology enthusiast Dr Rebecca Nesbi, formic acid is found in higher concentrations in Formica ants than in the species we’re seeing most commonly on flying ant day. "My answer to the question 'can gulls get drunk on flying ants?' would be No," said Dr Nesbi. "Although formic acid can be toxic to birds, it is more likely that they are just too hot and full.""
     
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    • smallkernowgarden

      smallkernowgarden Gardener

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      That's very interesting. Thank you
       
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