Red imported fire ants, also called RIFAs or simply fire ants, are known for their unpleasant bites, which can cause pain, swelling, and even nausea or dizziness. Although these ants prefer to build their nests outdoors, they also frequent building interiors in their search for food. Fire ants are most active during the spring and fall, making the coming months an important time to remain wary of these common pests. Furthermore, recent weather patterns have prompted pest control experts to predict an active fall for many common pest species, including fire ants. If you notice fire ants in or around your property, contact a pest management expert immediately for an inspection and treatment plan to prevent accidental bites and their unwanted reactions.
The Connection Between Fire Ants and Rain
Fire ants prefer to build their nests in open outdoor locations. They are often found in residential yards, as well as near gardens, sidewalks and against building exteriors. Fire ants build underground colonies with vast interconnecting tunnels, preferably in soft, malleable soil. When heavy rains occur, these tunnels become flooded and the ants move toward the surface in search of higher ground for their homes, which is why fire ant mounds appear to proliferate following rainy weather. This year, the heavy rains that have affected much of the South, including Florida, have caused an increase in fire ant activity near homes and businesses, and these ants are continually flushed from their homes and move deeper into human-populated areas in an attempt to find a dry, safe location to build new nests. Furthermore, the cooler, humid weather is ideal for the production of eggs by the colony’s queen, which causes fire ant numbers to swell as the weather conditions remain favorable for reproduction.
Fire Ant Control During the Fall
Because fire ant activity associated with lower temperatures and greater rainfall increases as the seasons change,fall is a good time to pursue fire ant control. Any time you notice fire ant mounds appearing, it’s a good idea to call in your pest control provider to assess the situation and develop a plan for treatment. Baits and insecticide applications are typically the most effective treatment options when handling fire ants—there are a number of products available, so speak with your pest control service about the best solution for your needs. Depending on the number of mounds and the size of your yard, treatment may focus on each mound individually or on a broader approach that treats the entire yard as a whole. While good yard maintenance rarely deters ants, it can help you spot new mounds in the earliest stages of formation, when they are easiest to treat. You should also check your yard within 24 hours of a rainstorm to determine whether any additional mounds have appeared to indicate a growing fire ant problem that requires attention.
The appearance of fire ants on your property should always be addressed promptly by your professional pest control service near Cape Coral. You can reach us today when you visit ourwebsite for more information about common Florida pests and how we can eliminate them for a healthier, more comfortable home.Our blog has even more tips, facts, and other information you can use to spot the earliest signs of trouble and take steps to keep your property pest-free.
