Ants are some of the most common home-invading pests faced by Fort Worth property owners. Of the many species of ants that you might come across in your Fort Worth home, one of the meanest is the fire ant. Fire ants are an aggressive ant species that are capable of inflicting painful stings when they feel threatened. These stings can lead to adverse health effects in those afflicted. It is important to know how to keep these unwanted ants away from your Fort Worth property. That means knowing what draws them to your property in the first place and knowing the steps you can take to keep them away.
What Do Fire Ants Look Like?
Fire ants are smaller ants, typically growing anywhere from 1/8th to 3/8th of an inch long. They are primarily dark red or reddish-brown in color, and they have segmented bodies consisting of a head, thorax, and abdomen.
In addition to their appearance, fire ants can be identified by the large, irregularly-shaped mound nests that they build. These nests can be anywhere from two to four square feet in area. They tend to build these nests in soil or gardens in the near vicinity of structures. Although they live outside, fire ants will enter homes in search of food or water, oftentimes through AC units or HVAC systems.
Threats Posed By Fire Ant Infestations
Although many people believe fire ants get their name due to their red coloring, the truth is that their name derives from the fact that fire ants can inflict painful stings that result in a burning sensation in the afflicted area. Furthermore, fire ants do sting rather than bite, unlike other ant species. Stings from fire ants, in addition to being painful, can result in welts and pustules. Moreover, due to the aggressive nature of fire ants, a person who is subjected to them will likely receive more than a single sting. Fire ant stings are especially dangerous for those with allergies as they can lead to anaphylactic shock, and, in some rare instances, have resulted in death.
Fire ant infestations are also quite difficult to get rid of. Not only can attempt to remove a nest result in painful stings, but fire ants are excellent at recolonizing new nests in the near vicinity. As such, attempting to get rid of fire ants on your own will most likely be painful and ineffective.
What Attracts Fire Ants To Properties?
Typically fire ants are brought onto a property in potted plants, bushes, and trees. Once they’ve established themselves on a property, they might enter the home because there is an abundance of food or water sources. Ease of access might be all it takes for fire ants to enter a home.
Fire Ant Prevention Techniques
To keep fire ants out of your Fort Worth home, you should try to remove any factors that attract them inside and seal off any potential entry points. This includes:
- Store trash in containers with tight-fitting lids and take out the trash regularly.
- Store food in airtight containers if not in the refrigerator.
- Keep home clean and tidy, wiping up spills and other food debris from counters and floors immediately.
- Install door sweeps under exterior doors.
- Install weatherstripping around windows and exterior doors.
- Fill in cracks in your home’s foundation with caulk.
- Seal holes around your home’s exterior such as around vents, pipes, and utility lines.
What To Do If Fire Ants Infest Your Fort Worth Property
Attempting to remove a fire ant infestation from your property can be dangerous without the proper knowledge and equipment. As such, if you are dealing with an infestation, contact the professionals here at White Knight Pest Control for assistance. Not only will we eliminate any ants from your property, but we can also work with you to take the proper steps to prevent them from returning. Don’t let fire ants threaten the safety of your family. Give us a call today.