Fire ants are easily the most annoying pest you can have in your yard. Their bite is painful, and they are very aggressive. However, there are additional things you should know about fire ants if you live in one of the 15 states that have a known problem, particularly with the red imported fire ant species that was accidently introduced to the U.S. in the 1930s.
- It is easier to prevent a fire ant colonization than to effectively eliminate them once they have infested an area. This is accomplished by broadcasting a fire ant bait twice a year – once in the spring before they get started looking for a place to colonize and again in the fall. This method will kill the queen before things can get out of control. An insecticide can also be broadcast for long-term residual control.
- Don’t assume that if you don’t see mounds that you don’t have fire ants. If they can’t find an ideal location, their survival instinct will guide them to other locations, such as in and under your home.
- While fire ant bites are painful to everyone, there are some people who are allergic and can have a serious, even lethal, reaction. Think of it like bee stings where some people can experience a serious allergic reaction.
- Attempting fire ant control on your own often is unsuccessful. This is because it can take several treatments to completely eradicate them. It is also important to know the right timing for baiting fire ants, how to use the products, which products are the most effective, and how to apply them.
If you would like to get professional help for dealing with fire ants or preventing them, call us at The Other Side Lawn & Ornamental Pest Control Inc.