Fire Ant
Category Lawn Pests
Actual Size: ⅛ to ⅜ inch
Characteristics: Usually reddish with a darker brown or black abdomen. They have strong mandibles on their head and a stinger located at the end of their abdomen.
Legs: 6
Antennae: Yes
Wings: The reproductive males and females have wings.
Habitat: Fire ants establish mounds in various soils, often choosing open sunny areas such as landscaping and structural bases, and they can nest beneath rocks, logs, or inside structures.
Habits:
- Their colonies can contain thousands of workers and multiple queens.
- Consume young plants and seeds, and may also attack small animals.
- Known for aggressive stinging and painful bites that cause burning sensations.
Fire Ants in Florida
The name “fire ant” comes from their painful stings and bites, which one ant can deliver multiple times. Disturbing a fire ant mound causes many workers to emerge and aggressively attack together. They consume a wide range of plant and animal material and prey on other insects. Fire ants are drawn to electrical devices and have caused damage to air conditioners, water wells, and lighting, creating potential fire hazards.
Fire Ant Habitat
Fire ants are drawn to moist environments, often nesting near rivers, well-watered lawns, and potted plants. Their mounds help maintain optimal temperature and moisture for the colony, serving as an above-ground nursery. These undisturbed mounds are commonly found in sunny, open spaces like pastures, parks, lawns, and fields. As omnivores, fire ants consume both plant and animal matter. While foraging, aggressive fire ants can enter homes through cracks and gaps under doors, windows, or walls.
Fire Ant Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
The sting of a fire ant is dangerous to both humans and pets. While many venomous ants bite and spray acid, fire ants bite and then sting using a stinger on their abdomen. Most people experience a burning sensation that fades quickly, but hive-like bumps and yellow fluid-filled pimples develop within a day. Fire ant colonies can also damage plants, lawns, and outdoor electrical devices. If you spot a mound, leave it alone.
If you spot signs of fire ants, consult local pest control specialists promptly.