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Red Imported Fire Ants

Solenopsis invicta
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Red imported fire ants (RIFAs, for short) get their common name from their ability to inflict painful bites and stings. These dark reddish-brown ants are an invasive species found throughout the southern part of the U.S. Keep reading to learn more red ant facts, including information on red ant bites and more.

Pest Stats

Color

Dark reddish brown

Legs

6

Shape

Segmented; oval

Size

1/8-3/8

Antennae

Yes

Region

Southern United States, from Maryland to Texas, California and New Mexico

Red Imported Fire Ant Photos

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Red imported fire ants (RIFAs, for short) get their common name from their ability to inflict painful bites and stings. These dark reddish-brown ants are an invasive species found throughout the southern part of the U.S. Keep reading to learn more red ant facts, including information on red ant bites and more.

Pest Stats

Color

Dark reddish brown

Legs

6

Shape

Segmented; oval

Size

1/8-3/8

Antennae

Yes

Region

Southern United States, from Maryland to Texas, California and New Mexico

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Habits

These red ants build large mound nests that are flattened, irregular in shape, and between two and four square feet in size. They are commonly introduced into new areas through potted plants, shrubs and trees.

Habitat

Red imported fire ants usually nest in soil near structural foundations or in landscaping. Although these fire ants are often found outdoors, they can gain access to buildings through HVAC systems and AC units. If they manage to get inside, red ant bites can become an issue.

Threats

Although commonly referred to as a bite, red ants actually sting, not bite. In fact, red ants will sting humans who disturb a nest. The sting of a red imported fire ant is painful and often results in a raised welt that becomes a white pustule. Often, a person stung by red imported fire ants will receive multiple stings from more than one of the ants. Persons allergic to insect stings will react more severely to red ant “bites.”

Red Imported Fire Ant Prevention

Red imported fire ants and their telltale mound nests should be actively avoided. Interfering with a fire ant nest can cause them to sting, resulting in painful welts. To prevent red ants from entering a structure, seal all internal and external cracks and crevices.

 

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