Fire Ants in Florida

That’s right…..The sub-tropical climate we enjoy in Florida is also enjoyed by unwelcomed pests such as fire ants and are considered an invasive species.

These insects are reddish/brown and/or black and they range in size from approximately one-eighth to one-quarter of an inch long.

Fire ants are known for their painful stings that often cause abscesses and itching that can last up to ten days. Scratching an abscess may result in infections should the abscess break. In addition, some people are allergic to fire ant stings which may pose even more adverse effects. Fire ants will sting not only humans but also pets, livestock and other wildlife.

Fire ants build and live in large interconnected subterranean tunnels that extend from the mounds. Nests can also be found in; trees and stumps, rotting logs, under sidewalks, pavement and buildings, inside electrical equipment and even indoors.

Fire ants eat a variety of foods which may include; fruits, sugars and syrups, other insects, meat and oils from seeds to name a few. They forage for food both day and night and travel more than 100 feet from their nest in search of their meal that they bring back to the colony.

Fire ants are extremely resilient and if not properly controlled reinfestation may occur which may even be larger than previous populations. So what can you do……. Contact Mosquito Squad of Tampa Bay at (813) 534-5918 or tampabay@mosquitosquad.com to schedule your fire ant service.