Fire ants are voracious predators and scavengers.
The imported red fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) is an invasive species native to South America. Its U.S. range spans across the warmer states of the union as it invades homes, lawns, gardens and flowerpots in its search for food. Large infestations are a threat to native species, pets and humans alike. Fire ants are quick to defend their territory by swarming intruders while repeatedly stinging them. Allergic reactions can occur, making the stings more dangerous and even deadly. Fire ants will enter songbird nests, killing young nestlings.
About Fire Ants
Adult fire ants grow to around .1 to .25 inches (3 to 6mm) in length and vary in color to light red to brownish-red. Signs of fire ant activity include small to large anthills in lawns, flowerpots and even pushing up garden pavers and cement walkways. Fire ant mounds can be large, exceeding the size of a basketball and contain thousands of ants. Trails of marauding ants are another signal of infestation. Fire ants are quick to anger and defend their nests with painful stings. Their abdomens contain venom glands and they can sting several times before being knocked off. They normally feed on insects, seeds and even hapless small vertebrates. Their introduction to North America interferes with native species, stings people and pets and ruins homeowners' lawns and gardens.
Prevent Fire Ants
Check all new plants for signs of any activity. Remove potential purchases from their pots and check their roots before loading them into your car. Keep pet food spills cleaned up and store food properly so it is not tempting to ants. Healthy, thick lawns will repel ants better than sandy, patchy yards.
Kill Fire Ants
The phorid fly (Phoridae) is a natural parasite of the fire ant. Borax sprinkled around the ant mounds is rumored to kill the ants from the inside of their nest out. The workers bring the poison into the nest and after feeding, the ants die. Food grade diatomaceous earth is effective in killing hard-bodied insects by promoting dehydration. Sprinkling diatomaceous earth on and around where the ants live will kill them when they walk through it. Using synthetic pyrethrums and other chemical-based pesticides is effective if natural solutions fail.
Treating Fire Ant Stings
A paste of baking soda and water, baking soda and vinegar or meat tenderizer and water will ease the pain of fire ant stings. Tea tree, lavender and clove oil all soothe inflamed areas and kill germs. Applying a cool compress to the area will prevent or lessen swelling as well as helping to numb the area. Over-the-counter allergy medications can be used as needed. Severe reactions will require the attention of a professional health care provider.
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