How homeowners are eliminating invasive fire ants

Fire ants are a problem in the South…. down here, they're everywhere! They don't care if you live in the city or out in the country; they just want to invade your space and settle down in your home, your yard or in your car. It's annoying, and it can be dangerous, too — they sting! But how do you get rid of these little pests?

If you live in the Carolinas (or any other part of the South), you might think that getting rid of fire ants is impossible. But we're here to tell you there are ways to get rid of them for good. It’s crucial to understand how these pests work to best get rid of fire ants when they encroach on your property.

But first, let's start with the basics:

Fire ants vs. red ants: What's the difference?

Fire ants, native to southern Brazil, have made their way to the United States and now inhabit 11 southern states with additional isolated populations in New Mexico and California. Despite their expanding presence, many people still confuse fire ants with their distant cousins, the red ants.

To help differentiate between these two insects, here's a list of key distinctions:

Color: Fire ants sport a reddish-brown hue, while red ants can display colors from reddish-brown to a darker red. It's a subtle difference, but watch for other clues to help you identify the right species.

Aggression: Fire ants are notoriously aggressive and won't hesitate to attack anything that dares to disturb their mound. Red ants, on the other hand, are a bit more relaxed and less likely to sting.

Stings: A fire ant sting packs a punch and often results in painful pustules. Red ants, however, do not commonly bite. If they do, those bites are generally less severe and might cause some mild irritation.

Mounds: When it comes to their mounds, fire ants go big with larger, dome-shaped abodes. Red ants prefer smaller, less structured homes.

By keeping these differences in mind, you can more accurately identify the type of ant you're dealing with and take appropriate action to manage the infestation.

What do fire ant stings look like?

Think back to the last time you got stung by an insect. If the bite didn't cause much discomfort, count yourself lucky that it wasn't a fire ant. These little troublemakers have stings that can cause significant harm and, in some cases, even be life-threatening.

So, how can you tell if you've been stung by a fire ant? Let's go through the signs:

Initial sting: A fire ant sting starts with a sharp, burning sensation at the site of the sting. If it feels more like a burn than a bite, you might be dealing with a fire ant.

Pustules: Within 24 hours, the sting site may become an itchy, pus-filled blister. These pustules are a dead giveaway for fire ant stings.

Swelling and redness: The area surrounding the sting may become swollen and red. In more severe cases, the swelling can be quite significant and warrant medical attention.

First aid tip: If you find yourself on the wrong end of a fire ant sting, clean the affected area with soap and water to ward off infection. Apply a cold compress to help reduce swelling and consider using over-the-counter pain relievers or antihistamines to ease the discomfort.

How to get rid of fire ants

There's no denying that fire ants are a nuisance. They build large mounds in your yard, ruining its aesthetic appeal, and their stings can be excruciating. So, how do you get rid of these unwelcome guests? Here are some steps to take:

Fire ant control

One-step solution: Identify the dome-shaped mounds in your yard (up to 18 inches in diameter) and choose a treatment method, such as bait, contact insecticides, or mound treatments. Follow the product instructions, wear protective clothing, monitor the treated areas, and reapply treatment if necessary.

It's important to note that DIY methods may not always be effective and could put you at risk of stings. It is recommended that you leave treatment of fire ants to professionals.

Contacting a professional

Expert help: If you're dealing with a large infestation or prefer not to handle the situation yourself, consider hiring a professional pest control company like Clark's Termite & Pest Control. They have access to specialized equipment and treatments that can effectively eliminate fire ants.

Preventative measures: A professional can also help you implement preventative measures to reduce the chances of future infestations, such as sealing entry points and recommending landscaping changes.

Safety and peace of mind: Hiring a professional ensures that fire ant treatments are applied safely and effectively, giving peace of mind and protecting your family and pets from potential harm.

Take control of your pest problems todayAre you tired of fire ants and other pests taking over your outdoor spaces in the Carolinas? Look no further than Clark’s Termite & Pest Control for all your pest control needs. Whether you require commercial services or residential services, their experienced team is here to help you reclaim your property and enjoy a pest-free environment. Head to www.clarkspest.com to get started!