Fire ants are one of the most dangerous pests on your property. These aggressive insects have no problem attacking humans and pets if they get too close to their colonies. Their stings are excruciating and sometimes result in an allergic reaction. Because of the injury risk, fire ants are tough to eliminate without the help of an exterminator. Keep reading to learn more about fire ants and how to deal with an infestation.
When Are Fire Ants The Most Active?
Fire ants are dark reddish-brown in color and range between 1/8" and 3/8" in size. Like other ant species, they have six legs, two antennae, and a segmented body. These insects feed on a variety of food sources and are attracted to sweet scents from fruits and plants. Originally from South America, these ants made their way to the United States sometime during the 1930s or 1940s.
The fire ants in Newnan are most active throughout the summer months and early autumn season. However, in some places with warm climates year-round, their active period could be longer. This ant species' ideal temperature for foraging is between 72 and 96 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though they prefer to wander around in the heat, fire ants will seek shelter from overly extreme temperatures. Their underground colonies provide much-needed relief from the hot summer sun.
Fire Ant Mounds: What To Do If You Spot Them
Colonies of fire ants contain up to 200,000 insects. Their mounds are flat, large, and have an irregular shape. The average fire ant mound is between two and four square feet. Homeowners commonly find them in their landscaping or the soil close to the foundation of their house. Although they prefer to stay outdoors, fire ants will infest homes if the conditions are right. They frequently gain access to indoor areas by traveling on plants brought inside. Fire ants can also get into homes through vents, pipes, and underneath doors and windows.
Fire ants are extremely aggressive towards humans and animals. Many people fall victim to fire ant attacks when they unknowingly step on or walk too close to a mound. Fire ant bites are actually painful stings accompanied by an unbearable burning sensation. The stings also result in pustules or blisters that can take up to ten days to heal. Although most people recover from fire ant stings without the need for medical attention, some individuals may experience a more severe allergic reaction. If you discover a fire ant mound in your yard, it's best to leave things up to an experienced Newnan pest control company, like Shane's Pest Solutions.
Why Home Remedies For Fire Ants Don't Work
Most do-it-yourself fire ant control remedies fail because they don't eliminate the colony's queen. As long as the queen is still alive, the colony will continue to grow and evolve. Disturbing a fire ant mound puts you at risk for serious injury, so we encourage you not to take matters into your own hands.
There are several ways to prevent fire ants from infesting your property in the first place. Here are some tips to keep these pests away from your home:
Eliminate standing water sources.
Keep your yard well-maintained.
Store garbage in sturdy receptacles with tight-fitting lids.
Seal all cracks and gaps in walls and between windows and doors.
For comprehensive fire ant treatment in Newnan, contact Shane's Pest Solutions.
Getting Rid Of Fire Ants In Your Newnan Lawn
When fire ants invade your property, you'll need an expert to eliminate them safely. At Shane's Pest Solutions, we use the latest in safe and effective pest control technology to eliminate fire ants and ensure they never return. We specialize in indoor and outdoor fire ant mounds and are here to assist you, no matter how extensive the problem. For more information on how we can help, call us today.
