Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA), Solenopsis invicta, are native to South America and entered the US around the 1930s. Since then, they have moved into our neighborhoods and have proven not to be the best neighbors. Their stings cause itchy, painful pustules on the skin and can trigger an allergic reaction in some people.
Their unsightly mounds become a nuisance in landscaped areas. Preferring open sunny areas, RIFAs nest in the ground several feet below mounds. One colony might have 100,000 to 500,000 ants.
Fire ants can be effectively suppressed. While there are successful preventive treatments available for RIFA, these are not always included in every service contract.
Fortunately for our clients, our program includes treatment of occasional fire ant mounds. If an infestation is frequent and wide spread, it would be worthwhile to set up a consultation with a Mainscape Agronomy Specialist to discuss preventive treatment options.