Pests are more problematic the larger they are, right? Unfortunately, this is not always the case. When it comes to fire ants, their smaller size in no way impedes them from causing tremendous trouble for homeowners. Building their nests around homes and threatening people and pets with painful stings and bites, these pests are about as bothersome they come. To help you better understand fire ants and the many problems they cause, here are a few things you should know.
What Do Fire Ants Look Like?
Fire ants are typically quite small, only growing to around 1/16 of an inch long. Sporting a red body, a dark red or black hind section, and a visible stinger, these painful ants are not too difficult to identify.
Where Do Fire Ants Build Their Nests?
Fire ants are interesting creatures in that they almost primarily build their nests in sunny, dry locations but will also tunnel deep beneath the ground to stay cool and find sources of water. The more shaded your yard is, the less likely you will be to have trouble with these irritating and painful pests.
The Dangers Of Fire Ants
Fire ants in Pensacola are by no means the most dangerous pests on the planet, but they are definitely nothing to be scoffed at. According to USA Today, 30 people die from ant related deaths each year, with fire ants claiming the majority of fatalities. The good news is that for most peoples, the symptoms of a fire ant bite or sting are minor and only consist of mild to moderate discomfort, and itchiness. It is only for individuals who have an allergy to insect venom that fire ants are truly dangerous. If you don’t know whether or not you are allergic to these painful pests, consult with your doctor to find out for certain.
How Hard Are Fire Ants To Treat?
Fire ants are one of the most difficult pests to treat, partly because of where they build their nests. Keeping ants out of your home is one thing, but preventing them from settling down on your property is a whole different story. Eliminating food sources is out of the question as fire ants primarily live off other insects, which are everywhere. In addition to this, there is no way to cut them off from water, as they will just tunnel down until they reach underground moisture pockets. There is also no way to block these pests off from the heat and sunlight they love. That is unless you have the time, money, and skills required to build a roof that fully covers your entire lawn.
Finally, to top it all off, fire ant colonies often have more than one queen; this allows nests to split as needed to avoid danger and allows them to build their colonies back up no matter what kind of treatment you throw at them.
The Only Way To Handle Fire Ants
It takes a particular skill set to handle fire ant problems effectively. At EnSec, we pride ourselves on our advanced pest control exclusion and elimination techniques. If you can’t go out into your yard without being attacked by fire ants, let our team come to your rescue. We will implement fast-working and long-lasting pest control treatments around your Pensacola property designed to handle fire ant problems fast. All of our plans are not only effective but also economical for the sake of your wallet.
Give our team a call today or reach out to us through our website to learn more about our ongoing pest control service options, or schedule a visit for your Pensacola property. Learn more about fire ant control services.