Ants have a reputation for arriving as uninvited guests among people enjoying barbeques, picnics, and other outdoor activities involving food.
Ants belong to the order Hymenoptera and the family Formicidae. The majority of ant species will form massive social colonies composed of members divided into distinct categories or castes, such as queens, workers, and those designated for reproduction.
Ants in Lawrenceville share some common characteristics, including a body with three segments, compound eyes, and antennae. Among the most dangerous ant species are fire ants. Historical data indicates that red imported fire ants (R.I.F.A.) originated in South America, arrived in the U.S. during the 1940s, and began demonstrating their highly-invasive tendencies.
What do fire ants look like? The body of a fire ant typically exceeds 1/8 of an inch and appears in red and black.
Do fire ants have wings? Yes. The colony members with responsibility for reproduction have wings and can take flight.
Are you wondering how to get rid of fire ants in your yard? The best course of action when responding to problems with fire ants involves seeking assistance from a local pest controller. A professional Lawrenceville pest control company maintains a staff of qualified technicians that will perform a detailed inspection of the premises to determine the nature and extent of the problem accurately. Today, licensed pest controllers use various products and application methods that will expel fire ants.
How To Identify A Fire Ant Infestation?
What are some of the most common indications of a fire ant colony? Fire ants form distinctive nests that are identifiable as follows:
- Fire ant nests sometimes appear near the foundations of structures and near driveways or sidewalks, which generate substantial heat.
- Look for fire ant “mounds” that commonly measure 10 to 24 inches wide, might reach heights of 18 inches, and often connect with extensive underground tunnel networks.
- You may notice these mounds specifically appear after several days of heavy rain.
- Winged fire ants (alates) who are responsible for reproduction often appear during the spring or fall and congregate as part of their mating ritual.
What attracts fire ants? Fire ants generally prefer to form nests in areas with ample sunlight, such as fields and lawns. Fire ants generally appear most active when temperatures exceed 70 degrees.
Why Fire Ants Are Worse Than Other Ants
Fire ants are an aggressive species that will attack in groups when they feel threatened and may climb up the legs of a human. An individual fire ant can deliver multiple painful stings that inject venom and usually results in red, irritated, swollen spots on the skin that soon blister.
Are you wondering how to soothe fire ant bites? Gently wash the area of skin with soap and water and consider using an ice pack to reduce pain. Over-the-counter, topical antihistamines often help with relieving itchiness. Some experts suggest that applying a liquid mix containing half water and half bleach helps reduce symptoms.
Some individuals might experience more severe allergic reactions after enduring fire ant stings. Those who exhibit signs such as difficulty breathing, nausea, or dizziness should promptly seek assistance from a medical professional.
Why Do-It-Yourself Fire Ant Control Fails
Online retailers and local home improvement stores sell various sprays, traps, and other ant control products. Unfortunately, the majority of these options prove ineffective against large ant infestations. The best means of responding to these intrusions involves consulting with a local pest control professional.
The Trick To Getting Rid Of Fire Ants Around Your Property
Lawrenceville-area property owners facing problems with fire ants should contact ProCare Pest Services to remove these pests safely. Our qualified staff will conduct a thorough inspection, answer any questions, and explain the best available treatment options. We are looking forward to speaking with you.