Little black flies near coop

[irlybird]

i was walking to our coop today and noticed these little flies covering 2 rocks (that we use as steps). They are right outside the coop so I don’t want to spray chemicals. I used 1:3 vinegar to water ratio and dumped it on them.

Are these a fly that I have to be worried about invading our coop or are these just a fresh batch of a fall fly that just so happens to be near our coop.

I clean our coop weekly and I don’t notice any in their coop or run.

There was such a mound they reminded me of when I had an ant issue and found the queen and her fortress.

Any advice is appreciated.

 

[irlybird]

After posting this I believe they are black ants (with wings). Could that be?

If so how can I get rid of them so close to the coop.

 

[twendt]

Yes, I thought ants too. Ant killer or DE.

 

[irlybird]

Can I use an ant killer so close to their coop? It’s on a step right before we step into the coop.