Red Imported Fire Ants
Solenopsis invicta
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
Videos View All Videos
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Red imported fire ants can cause a burning sensation upon stinging. People are often stung by fire ants when they stumble upon a nest. Check out the red imported fire ant pest guide for more information.
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Watch this video highlighting the basics on the number one nuisance pest in America - ants.
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Watch this video to learn where ants are most commonly found in homes and advice on how to get rid of ants.
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Watch this video to learn how to prevent ants and what to do if you have ants in your home.
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What attracts ants to my kitchen counter? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, discusses why ants tend to march into the heart of the home. Visit the Ants Pest Guide to learn more about the common types of ants.
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How are ants able to carry such large crumbs? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, explains. Discover additional information about ants and ant control.
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
Videos View All Videos
-
Red imported fire ants can cause a burning sensation upon stinging. People are often stung by fire ants when they stumble upon a nest. Check out the red imported fire ant pest guide for more information.
-
Watch this video highlighting the basics on the number one nuisance pest in America - ants.
-
Watch this video to learn where ants are most commonly found in homes and advice on how to get rid of ants.
-
Watch this video to learn how to prevent ants and what to do if you have ants in your home.
-
What attracts ants to my kitchen counter? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, discusses why ants tend to march into the heart of the home. Visit the Ants Pest Guide to learn more about the common types of ants.
-
How are ants able to carry such large crumbs? Dr. Jim Fredericks, chief entomologist for the National Pest Management Association, explains. Discover additional information about ants and ant control.
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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