(by the kind permission of National Pest Management Association)
Solenopsis invicta
Description
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.
Habits
These ants will build large mound nests, and will sting humans who come across a nest.
Habitat
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.
Threats
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.
Prevention
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.
