How Can We Stop Fire Ants From Spreading?
Fire ants are an invasive species of stinging ants that have become an international problem. The ants are aggressive and territorial. When they attack, each ant can sting many times. Besides pain and discomfort from the stings, some people are allergic and go into a potentially deadly anaphylactic shock. Although the ants cannot be completely stopped, the homeowner can halt infections on their land to protect humans, pets, livestock, bird life and indigenous insect populations. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Educate yourself about the species of fire ants in your area. Your state's Department of Agriculture can inform you on where current infestations are and how to control them.
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Inspect purchased plants before bringing them onto your property and planting them. You are the first line of defense in protecting your property.
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Locate an infestation. Mounds tend to be dome shaped and can be up to half a foot across. The small ants are dark red to brown. Do not try to collect a sample of the ants; let your state's Department of Agriculture identify the species.
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Communicate with your neighbors. Treatment is more effective when adjoining property owners work in conjunction with each other.
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Treat any mounds, located in an area where they present an immediate risk, with an insecticide. This is not completely effective by itself and re-infestation is possible.
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Spread a granular bait that will be carried by worker ants to any remaining ant populations. It only takes one queen and several workers for a re-infestation to take place. Bait, although it can take months to completely eradicate the problem, is effective in treating the entire nest.
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Tips & Warnings
Check with the Department of Agriculture in your state as to what treatments are recommended and allowed by law.
When using any granular bait or insecticide, always read and follow all the manufacturer's instructions.
References
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