Dwarg Weeping Pussy Willow Tree Is Covered With Small Flying Ants

Question From: O. Reynolds-Butler - Whitharral, Texas, United States
Q: I live in Central/Western France. Can you tell me why my dwarf weeping pussy willow tree is COVERED with little black flying flies (they look like small flying ants)? They are totally covering the tree and these creatures have eaten thousands of holes in the leaves and some of the leaves are beginning to die. They also bite if they get onto my own skin.

A: Olga, I am not familiar with French insects, but many ants do fly and bite. It sounds like you might have a swarm. Here is a website http://www.tuin-thijs.com/insecten-buitenland-engels.htm that may be of help to you in identifying your insect.  Here is another site with someb brief information about ants: http://www.orkin.com/ants/winged-ants. Thanks for visiting Yardener.  Best, Nancy.