Fire ants belong to the genus Solenopsis and are among the most aggressive and dangerous ant species in the United States. These pests love the warm, humid Florida climate. They deliver painful stings and build large, dome-shaped mounds. Fire ants can harm people, pets, wildlife, and property.
Identification
A key step in fire ant identification is spotting their distinctive mounds. These dome-shaped nests can reach up to 18 inches tall and usually have no visible opening at the top. You’ll most often find them in sunny, open areas like lawns, parks, and fields. Disturbing a nest can trigger an aggressive response, as worker ants swarm out to defend it. If you notice a mound near your home or business, it’s best to contact a professional ant exterminator to assess the situation and recommend next steps.
Fire Ant Habitat
Attracted to moisture, fire ants nest near rivers, well-watered lawns, and potted plants. Fire ants build mounds that help to regulate temperature and moisture conditions in the colony. Mounds act They also act as an above-ground nursery and provide excellent temperature and moisture conditions.
Undisturbed fire ant mounds are frequently located in sunny open areas, such as pastures, parks, lawns, and fields. Being omnivores, fire ants feed on both plants and animals. When foraging for food, aggressive fire ants can gain access to homes through cracks, crevices, gaps under doors, windows, or walls.
Fire Ants in Florida
Fire ants are a common year-round nuisance in Florida. The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) is the most widespread and dangerous species. Its name comes from the intense burning sting it delivers. These pests are very invasive and have pushed out many native ants, building colonies with thousands of workers. When you disturb a mound, hundreds can swarm and sting at the same time.
Fire ants hunt other insects, eat plant matter, seeds, and small animals, and can damage electrical systems. They chew through wiring and nest in outdoor equipment like AC units and well pumps, creating fire hazards.
Fire Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
The painful sting can be a health risk to humans and pets. Most venomous ants bite and then spray acid into the wound; fire ant behavior is a bit different. They bite and then use their stinger, located on their abdomen. For most people, the burning sensation goes away in a few minutes. Hive-like bumps occur at the sting site within 30 minutes and pimples with yellow fluid occur within 24 hours after being stung. Always consult a healthcare provider if symptoms appear.
Large colonies can damage plants, lawns, and outdoor electrical fixtures. If a mound is located, leave it alone and contact a professional ant exterminator.
Are Fire Ants Hard to Get Rid of?
Getting rid of fire ants can be tough. They are very resilient, with some colonies having multiple queens. Many DIY methods fail to eliminate entire nests, especially if they target only visible mounds. Effective, long-term eradication requires a multi-step approach:
- Baiting to target foraging workers and queens
- Mound treatments to kill surface colonies
- Perimeter sprays to prevent re-entry.
The best way to discover how to get rid of fire ants is to ask the experts.
How Many Fire Ants Count as an Infestation?
Even one visible mound may indicate a fire ant infestation. A mature colony can have up to 500,000 ants. Signs of an escalation include multiple mounds, frequent indoor sightings, or repeated stings.
If you’re unsure about an infestation, we recommend scheduling a professional inspection. Our technicians use proven integrated pest management techniques for fire ant extermination to protect your property.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Attracts Fire Ants To Your Property?
Fire ants are attracted to moisture, food sources, and warm, sunny environments. They’re also drawn to electrical currents, which makes outdoor wiring and equipment particularly vulnerable.
Where Are Fire Ants Commonly Found?
They are typically found in open, sunny areas such as lawns, gardens, parks, and fields, where they build large dome-shaped mounds. They also nest near structural foundations, potted plants, and electrical boxes, especially in moist or disturbed soil.
How Can I Identify Fire Ants?
You can identify fire ants by their reddish-brown color, frenzied activity when disturbed, swarming behavior, and characteristic mounds.
Are Fire Ant Stings Dangerous?
Yes, fire ant stings are painful and can cause burning, blisters, and in some cases, allergic reactions. Their coordinated attacks make them dangerous to children, pets, and other individuals with allergies. Having said that, most people only experience a localized reaction to fire ant stings, and symptoms disappear within a few days. If your symptoms persist after a few days or you have a severe reaction seek medical advice.
Can Fire Ants Damage My Property?
Yes, they can damage electrical equipment, air conditioners, and outdoor fixtures by nesting inside and chewing through wiring. Fire ants can also destroy lawns, harm plants, and undermine structural foundations with their extensive tunnel systems.
