Fire Ant

Category:

Actual Size: ⅛” to ⅜”

Characteristics: Blackish to red in color. Fire ants have a stinger in their abdomen.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Wings: The reproductive males and females have wings.

Habitat: Fire ants build mounds in almost any soil, favoring structural foundations and landscaping in open sunny areas.

Fire Ant Habits:

  • Will bite and then use their stinger, located on their abdomen.
  • Fire ants feed on young plants and seeds, and will also attack small animals.
  • Colonies build above-ground mounds that provide excellent conditions to raise their young.

Fire Ants in Albuquerque NM

Fire ants get their name due to the burning sensation produced when they sting. A single fire ant can sting and bite its victim repeatedly. When a fire ant mound is disrupted, workers quickly make their way to the surface. Attacks by fire ants are synchronized as hundreds of workers sting at the same time. Feeding on almost any plant or animal material, fire ants also feed on other insects. Most venomous ants bite and then spray acid into the wound; fire ants bite and then use their stinger, located on their abdomen.

Fire Ant Habitat

Attracted to moisture, fire ants nest near rivers, well-watered lawns, and potted plants. Fire ants build mounds that help to regulate temperature and moisture conditions in the colony. Mounds act as an above-ground nursery and provide excellent temperature and moisture conditions. Undisturbed fire ant mounds are frequently located in sunny open areas, such as pastures, parks, lawns, and fields. Omnivores, fire ants will feed on both plant and animal resources. When foraging for food, aggressive fire ants gain access to homes through cracks, crevices, gaps under doors, windows, or walls.

Fire Ant Behaviors, Threats or Dangers

The painful sting delivered by fire ants can be a serious threat to humans and animals. For many people, the immediate burning sensation goes away in a few minutes. However, hive-like bumps occur at the sting site within 30 minutes and pimples with yellow fluid occur within 24 hours after being stung. Fire ants reproduce at an alarming rate and can spread throughout a lawn or open area quickly. Colony-building can damage plants, lawns, and outdoor electrical fixtures. Disturbing a fire ant nest can result in an attack of hundreds of worker fire ants. If you suspect a fire ant mound on your property, contact a professional ant exterminator.

Don’t wait until your home is overrun by ants. Contact Pest Defense Solutions today!