Fire ants are a notorious pest known for their painful stings and aggressive behavior. These reddish-brown ants may be small, but they can cause big problems for homeowners and businesses. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fire ants, their dangers, and the best ways to keep them under control.
What Are Fire Ants?
Fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) are an invasive species originally from South America. They are known for their aggressive nature and ability to build large colonies in soil, particularly in warm climates. Fire ants are commonly found in yards, gardens, and even inside homes where they search for food and shelter.
Identifying Fire Ants
• Color: Reddish-brown with a darker abdomen
• Size: Workers range from 1.6 to 5 mm long
• Behavior: Highly aggressive when disturbed
• Nests: Mounds of loose soil, usually built in open areas
Why Are Fire Ants Dangerous?
Fire ants are more than just a nuisance—they pose real risks to humans, pets, and even wildlife.
1. Painful Stings
Fire ants sting in swarms, injecting venom that causes a burning sensation, red welts, and even allergic reactions in some individuals. Severe cases can lead to anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.
2. Damage to Property
These ants can invade electrical equipment, causing damage to air conditioning units, wiring, and other electronics. Their nesting habits can also ruin lawns and gardens.
3. Harm to Pets and Livestock
Pets and farm animals are vulnerable to fire ant attacks, especially when nests are disturbed. Fire ants can sting animals repeatedly, leading to serious injuries or infections.
How to Get Rid of Fire Ants
Effective fire ant control requires a combination of treatment methods to eliminate both the visible ants and the hidden colony.
1. Professional Pest Control
Hiring a licensed pest control service, like Pestwise, ensures safe and effective treatment using high-quality insecticides like Dragnet FT. Our team can assess the infestation, treat affected areas, and provide long-term prevention solutions.
2. DIY Treatments
For smaller infestations, you can try:
• Baiting Systems: Fire ant baits attract workers who carry poison back to the colony, effectively eliminating the queen.
• Direct Insecticide Treatment: Spraying mound drench products directly into nests can kill ants on contact.
• Boiling Water Method: Pouring hot water over the mound can kill some ants but is not always effective for eliminating the entire colony.
3. Preventing Future Infestations
• Keep outdoor areas clean: Fire ants are attracted to food and sugary substances. Keep trash sealed and clean up spills.
• Seal entry points: Inspect and seal cracks around your home’s foundation, windows, and doors.
• Regularly inspect your yard: Fire ants establish new colonies quickly, so checking for new mounds can help you act early.
Need Fire Ant Control? Contact Pestwise!
If you’re dealing with fire ants, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Pestwise offers expert fire ant treatment to protect your home and business.
📞 +1 437-561-2718 | Toll-Free: +1 866-886-5513
📧 info@pestwise.ca
Stay pest-free with Pestwise!
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