Fire Ant Identification & Prevention In Alabama & Florida

Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Ants

What are fire ants?

Native to South America, fire ants are an invasive species in the United States. They take over properties in large numbers and drive away native species of ants and other insects and can be difficult to get rid of from your Mobile yard. Adult fire ants grow to between one-eighth and one-quarter of an inch long and are reddish-brown, red, black, or multi-colored. Fire ants are incredibly aggressive and deliver painful stings to any animal or person they view as a threat to themselves or their nest. They work together as a group to deliver many painful stings.

Having a fire ant nest on your Florida or Alabama property is a serious issue because something as simple as walking across your yard could elicit an attack. A fire ant nest dramatically reduces a family’s ability to enjoy their outdoor space.

Are fire ants dangerous?

Fire ants have short tempers and deliver painful stings that result in a burning sensation. The bite sites often form pustules that become very itchy and last for days or even weeks. Those allergic to fire ant venom may experience severe allergic reactions or, in extreme cases, anaphylaxis.

Fire ants are very resilient and very difficult to eliminate and keep from returning. The best way to protect your property from fire ants is to partner with a professional that can offer the recurring services necessary to keep these ants away for good!

Why do I have a fire ant problem?

Fire ants will move onto any property that offers a suitable place to nest or forage for food. Fire ants search for food more than 100 feet from the nest, meaning a fire ant nest could be located on a neighboring property and still end up on yours. Fire ants are omnivores and eat various foods, including fruits, sugars, insects, meat, seeds, grease, and oil. Gardens, trash cans, recycling bins, pet food, outdoor eating areas, and compost areas all act as feeding grounds for fire ants.

Fire ants are most active when temperatures are between 70° and 90°F and they forage for food both day and night. The worker ants move as a team to gather food and return it to the rest of the colony back at the nest.

Where will I find fire ants?

Fire ants prefer to nest in open sunny areas, which is why they are so problematic in our yards. Their nest may be raised or flat but are most often irregular in shape, and they construct several entrances under the ground. These ants swarm as a group when they feel the nest is under attack. Other areas where fire ants may build a nest include in rotting logs, in pavement cracks, or inside of electrical equipment, farm equipment, or utilities.