We’re heading into fire ant season here in Brevard County, FL. Most locals know that fire ants are notorious for their aggressive behavior, painful stings, and ability to swarm in massive numbers. But did you know there’s a lot of misinformation surrounding fire ants? While these insects indeed pose a threat, there are a lot of misconceptions about their behavior and habits. Let’s separate fact from fiction and set the record straight on fire ants.

Myth #1: Fire Ants Only Live in the Southern U.S.

Fact: While fire ants are most commonly found in the southern United States, they have been spreading to other regions. These resilient pests can adapt to different environments and have even been found in parts of the Midwest and West.

Myth #2: Boiling Water Is the Best DIY Way to Kill Fire Ants

Fact: While pouring boiling water on a fire ant mound may kill some ants, it rarely eliminates the entire colony. Fire ants have deep, complex nests, and survivors often relocate to rebuild. Plus, scalding water can harm the grass and vegetation surrounding the mounds, and you could seriously burn yourself if you’re not careful. Professional treatment is the most effective and safe way to eradicate them.

Myth #3: Fire Ants Attack Without Provocation

Fact: Fire ants are defensive, not aggressive by nature. They usually only swarm and sting when their nest is disturbed. That’s why it’s important to be cautious when walking near mounds and to avoid direct contact with their colonies.

Myth #4: All Fire Ant Species Are the Same

Fact: There are several species of fire ants. The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, is the most well-known and invasive, especially here in Florida. Native fire ants, Solenopsis geminata (Fabricius), are not as common. They tend to be less aggressive and don’t spread as quickly as their imported counterparts.

How to Protect Your Property from Fire Ants

Understanding the truth about fire ants is the first step in dealing with them effectively. If you notice fire ant activity in your yard, consider these steps:

  • Avoid disturbing mounds – Fire ant mounds are usually dome-shaped or flat, without an obvious entry point. The soil looks “fluffy” and loosely packed. If you spot a suspected fire ant mound, avoid it. This prevents painful stings and aggressive swarming.
  • Seal up your home – Fire ants can fit through very tiny crevices and cracks.  Inspect your home for potential entry points, paying close attention to areas around doors, windows, and any gaps where pipes or wires enter your home. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these openings and keep unwanted pests out.
  • Call in the experts – Fire ants are tough to handle alone. Contact Slug-A-Bug for expert solutions to eliminate fire ants for good.

Fire ants are often misunderstood, and separating myth from fact can help home and business owners take the right approach to dealing with them. If you’re struggling with fire ants on your property, don’t let misinformation guide your decisions—reach out to Slug-A-Bug for professional pest control you can trust! We offer a once-a-year fire ant treatment that we guarantee, so you can have peace of mind knowing your fire ant problem is truly taken care of.