The Red Imported Fire Ant

The Red Imported Fire ant has been deemed the "Ant from Hell" and with good reason. For over fifty years, the Red Imported Fire Ant has been wreaking havoc and destruction across the United States south and across to the western states. They cause a horrible bite that is painful and can cause great damage to the surrounding area. The Red Imported Fire Ant is typically native to Brazil, but has spread across the United States and has even made it as far as Australia. It is important to treat any infestations of Red Imported Fire Ants immediately due to the fact that they are very damaging to the ecosystem.

Dangers to the ecosystem are a primary concern when a Red Imported Fire Ant infestation occurs. They feed on plant juices and are very destructive to the plants that they eat. They also eat many insects and while that may be beneficial to some gardens, they also tend to eat the eggs of various reptiles and birds. It has also been noted that high Red Imported Fire Ant populations can significantly lower fish populations because they feed on and destroy fish eggs. Fire ants will feed on both animal and plant material and they have no preference as to whether the material is living or dead. One good thing to note is that the Red Imported Fire Ant does not nest indoors. They prefer to build their nests outside in the open sun. Some of their mounds are as high as 24 inches. Because one mound may hold over 2,000,000 fire ants, it is essential that you do not try to remove the mound with any home remedies or treatments. You should have large Red Imported Fire Ant mounds treated by a pest control professional.

If you have been bitten by Red Imported Fire Ants, you will need to monitor the site and make sure that you do not have an allergic reaction. There have been dire consequences for those who are allergic to insect stings, when they have been bit by Fire Ants- including coma. It is recommended not to pop the blisters that result from Fire Ant stings, but to apply a cold compress and keep the area elevated. If you believe that there may be a serious reaction to the bite, then seek medical attention immediately. Since it is necessary to kill Fire Ants in their mounds and their mounds may be up to two feet deep, it is also recommended to have a professional handle the extermination and treatment of Red Imported Fire Ant Mounds.