Fire Ants
Active Seasons
Appearance and Size Facts
- Red Imported Fire ants have reddish brown body and a darker abdomen
- Have a stinger and can deliver a very painful sting
- Size: Range from 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch in length
- Typically nest outdoors in sunny areas of exposed soil
- Prefer high-protein foods, but will feed on both plants and animal matter
Behavior and Habitat of Fire Ants
The Red Imported Fire ant has spread to more than 13 southern and western states and continues to expand its range. These ants can cause serious medical, agricultural, and property damage. They are very aggressive and will sting repeatedly, especially when their colony/mound is disturbed. Fire ants typically nest outdoors in sunny areas of exposed soil or lawns. Fire ant infestations may reach 30 to 100 single-queen mounds per acre, containing up to 80,000 ants, and even more when multiple-queen mounds are located. They prefer high-protein and lipid-based foods, but will feed on almost any plant or animal matter, as well as sugary substances.
Signs of Infestation of Fire Ants
Look for fire ant workers and swarmers and sandy earthen mounds (most visible after recent rainfall). Fire ant swarmers are also attracted to shiny and/or reflective objects, such as vehicles and swimming pools. Although swarmers cannot physically sting, these can lead to finding nesting areas in the vicinity.
Tips for Prevention of Fire Ants
Keep food items secured and pet food off of the floors. Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed 2 foot from the home. Caulk any visible cracks around windows and doors.
Fire Ant Gallery
Latest Pest & Termite Control News
Termites 101: A South Florida Homeowners Guide
Jun 07, 2021—Florida Termites
South Florida is an attractive place to call home. It's no wonder termites also love West Palm Beach, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Fort Myers, Fort Pierce and other South Florida neighborhoods. In fact, termites are predicted to damage over 50% of South Florida structures by 2040, according to...
Read More ›
Drywood vs Subterranean Termites
May 03, 2021—Termites, Florida Termites, Identification & Control
Here at Hulett Environmental Services, we receive many questions regarding the different species of termites and questions about the various effective treatment methods for eradicating infestations, including "Do you tent for subterranean termites?", along with "Does tenting kill subterranean...
Read More ›
What to Know about Termite Swarming Season
Apr 27, 2021—Termites, Florida Termites, Termites
As the warmer and rainy months approach, South Floridians must be aware that termite swarming season is also upon us, putting homes and businesses at increased risk of becoming infested. In fact, South Florida is home to many of the cities known for having some of the most termite infestations...
Read More ›
