Color: Dark reddish brown
Legs: 6
Shape: Segmented; oval
Size: 1/8-3/8"
Antennae: True
Red imported fire ants nest in soil and build mound nests. They can infest garages.
These ants will build large mound nests, and will sting humans who come across 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 a red imported fire ant receives multiple painful stings from more than one of the ants. Persons allergic to insect stings will react more severely.
Red imported fire ants will build their nest mounds outdoors in landscape areas or near a structural foundation. The ant will gain entry to a building through holes or cracks.
Red imported fire ants and their telltale mound nests should be actively avoided. To prevent entry into a structure, seal all internal and external cracks and crevices.
Fire ants bite and sting as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened or when their mound is disturbed. They become highly aggressive when provoked and will attack in large numbers, biting to grip the skin and then stinging repeatedly to protect their colony and queen.
Fire ants build visible mounds in soil outdoors, often in lawns, gardens, and near foundations, and forage for food, including insects, seeds, and sweet substances. They form large colonies that can spread rapidly, are known for their aggressive behavior, and can also damage electrical equipment by nesting inside components.
If a fire ant bites you, you'll experience a painful sting followed by a burning sensation. The sting site typically develops into a raised, red welt that may turn into a white pustule within 24 hours.