Overview
A Thorough Inspection is Key to Control
If you live in the southeast chances are you have had a run in with fire ants. Their painful bites and stings tend to leave a lasting impression. By taking the time to identify areas that are infested your fire ant control efforts will be more effective.
Step
1
Fire Ant Inspection - Where to Look
Where do Fire Ants live? Fire ant infestations are usually easy to spot due to their above ground mounds.
In most cases fire ant mounds are usually found in open, sunny areas. Fire ants will build mounds in both bare soil and in grass.
In times when weather conditions such as drought, very high temperatures, or too much rain exist, fire ants are known to move into wall voids, utility boxes and air conditioning units. While taking a look in utility boxes or air conditioning units will be pretty straightforward, looking inside a wall void is more difficult. If you suspect fire ants in a wall void you should use a flashlight and check around the exterior of wall very late in the evening when the ants are foraging. If you see activity in that specific area you can confirm the infestation.
Tools Needed:
- Bright Flashlight