Fire ants are more than a nuisance, they are a danger — to you and your lawn.
Did you know that fire ants were accidentally imported into Alabama from South America back in the 1930’s? They are perhaps one of the most annoying, widespread nemeses around. They can easily take over your yard if you’re not careful. So what makes them so problematic?
Fire ants invade and destroy electrical equipment.
According to the Texas Imported Fire Ant Research and Management Project, the damage they cause in the state of Texas alone is estimated to be $1.2 billion annually. They are an expensive problem, mostly because they can cause significant damage to electrical and utility systems.
- They present a hazard to maintenance workers, who repair these units.
- They bring dirt to build their colony inside electrical boxes, which corrodes the system.
- They are attracted to oscillating magnetic fields, and when they get into the switching mechanism, it shocks and electrocutes them. The buildup of dead ants interferes with operation.
Fire ants threaten the health and safety of pets.
Pets are not immune to the bite of these ants. In fact, their smallness in size may make them even more at risk. “Fire ants have the potential to seriously injure or even kill a small animal if the animal is not able to move away from the sand mound,” Pet Meds says. “Once a potential danger is spotted, the colony of ants immediately attack with speed and ferocity injecting a poisonous alkaloid into the victim.”
Fire ants endanger the root systems of grass.
In light of the fact that fire ants can totally destroy an electrical box or send your pet (or you!) into anaphylactic shock, it’s crazy to think they can also ruin lawns, golf courses, and gardens. They are builders, so they are not trying to be destructive. But their mounds are an eyesore and, if their population in your yard is not controlled, their underground tunnel system can interfere with your grass and plants’ root systems.
Are you fighting a losing battle with fire ants? You’re not alone. You may need a professional to help you get rid of fire ants, especially if you have children or pets. EnviroSpray Services has the tools and expertise you need. We can offer a once a year solution, so that you don’t have to worry about controlling these ants year round. Contact EnviroSpray Services to learn more!