Red imported fire ants, Solenopsis Invicta, are a stinging pest that can infest Alabama properties. A single colony of fire ants can have as many as 200,000 members!
If you’ve ever had the unfortunate experience of getting bit or stung by one of these little monsters, you’ll be eager to know how to keep them from settling in.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to discourage fire ants from taking up residence on your property. Keep reading to learn more!
What Attracts Fire Ants to a Property?
Why do fire ants build hills in our yards, anyway? Well, several things can attract fire ants to a property, including:
Standing Water
Fire ants are attracted to standing water, so it’s crucial to eliminate any sources of moisture on your property. This could include repairing leaky fixtures, fixing gutters, and clearing away any debris that could collect water.
Food Sources
Fire ants are also attracted to food sources, so keep your property clean and free of potential attractants like crumbs and spills.
Warmth
Fire ants prefer warm climates, so they’re more likely to be found on sunny properties with little shade. They may nest in bright areas, near heat sources, or exposed soil.
Tips for Preventing Fire Ants from Infesting
The good news is you can take steps to prevent infestations in the first place. There are several things you can do regarding ant control, including:
- Keeping your property clean and free of potential attractants like food scraps and spills
- Eliminating sources of moisture, like standing water or leaky fixtures
- Maintaining your property to discourage fire ants, like mowing the lawn and trimming shrubs
- Creating a barrier around your property with fire ant bait or a fire ant spray
If you suspect you already have an infestation, call a professional ant control company right away. They will be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to get rid of the fire ants for good.
The Best Fire Ant Extermination Methods
If you have a fire ant infestation, you don’t have to guess how to get rid of fire ants. Some of the most effective fire ant extermination methods are as follows:
Baiting
Fire ant baits are an effective way to get rid of fire ants. Baits contain a slow-acting poison that fire ants take back to their nests, resulting in the entire colony being exterminated.
Spraying
Ant sprays can be effective at killing fire ants on contact. But sprays don’t always reach the fire ant nests. So they may need to be combined with baiting or another method.
Flushing
Fire ants can be flushed out of their nests using water or a chemical solution. This method is most effective when used in combination with baiting or spraying.
So if you want to know more about how to kill fire ants, try one of these methods. And remember, preventing fire ants from infesting your property in the first place is always the best course of action.
Find Fire Ant Pest Control in Springville, Alabama
Don’t let fire ants ruin your summer! By taking some preventive measures and knowing the best fire ant extermination methods, you can keep your property fire-ant-free all season long.