How Dangerous Are Fire Ants On My Jacksonville, FL Property?

Most people wouldn’t be worried if they saw ants inside their Jacksonville, FL home or business. Folks tend to assume they are harmless because of how common they are. However, they present significant health risks.

Ants have countless illness-causing germs. Further, some species can ruin your property. Fire ants are one subgroup that is prevalent in the region. Learn more about their dangers and what you can do to steer clear of them. Also, find out how Lindsey Pest Services can be of assistance. 

How Do Fire Ants Operate? What Are the Hazards?

Generally, fire ants are 0.06 to 0.20 of an inch long. They have two antennas and six legs. A black stinger is at the bottom of their reddish-brown bodies. Their dominance in North America is surprising, as they aren’t native to the region. Since they flourish in natural and warm settings, they spend most of their time outdoors beneath the sun. Dry fields, yards, and similar places with ground dirt will be hubs for them. You’re aren’t likely to encounter them in shady zones, such as forests. Fire ants create large mounds in the soil, which damages landscaping. They also destroy plant material and grass sod.

It’s not a matter of if fire ants will come indoors, but when. They’re too close on the lawn to avoid violating your space. Of course, they’ll gather in the kitchen because of the wealth of food. Among the things they eat are:

• Grease
• Meat
• Vegetables
• Sugary items
• Seeds
• Honeydew
• Eggs From Arthropods

Fire ants will chew up any insects and creatures, whether they are living or deceased. Birds, rodents, ticks, worms, and spiders can be victims. Considering this, you may have an overall pest problem if these ants are hanging around. Getting rid of them will be extremely difficult for several reasons, chiefly because they procreate quickly and in volume. Over 100,000 members can be in a single colony. Additionally, these insects repeatedly spread out and build fresh nests.

Resist the urge to crush a fire ant mound. You could be bitten, and the results may be crucial. Severe physical reactions and death are possible because these bugs attack in swarms. At a minimum, you’ll have pain and a burning sensation at the site. There will be subsequent skin inflammation and scarring. Experiencing an allergic reaction, nausea, or sweats are an indication to seek medical attention. Individuals with pre-existing conditions or allergies will be more greatly affected. So will the elderly and children. Fire ants are likely to assault pets as well. They capture prey with their mandibles and inject venom with alkaloids.

How Can Fire Ants Be Prevented?

Enacting preventative protocols with ants is a must because they can penetrate holes of any size. Infestations are pervasive. Perform the following tasks:  

• Seal openings in foundations, doors, windows, and utilities.
• Have moisture breakdowns and leaks repaired immediately.
• Ensure that door sweeps and window screens are in good condition.
• Thoroughly clean the kitchen regularly. Wash the dishes, and wipe off cabinets and countertops. Don’t forget to go around appliances.
• Vacuum rugs and remove garbage on a routine basis.
• Use airtight containers for food and trash storage.
• Promptly get up crumbs and spills.
• Sit greenery and wood two feet away from the property.
• Keep free wood, such as logs, off of the soil.

What Can Lindsey Pest Services Do About Fire Ants?  

Commercial products for fire ants can aggravate them and cause their colonies to disperse further on your property. Not to mention, they can be costly and unhealthy. We at Lindsey Pest Services have safe treatment options that are highly effective. Our QualityPro certified technicians will locate nests and vulnerabilities. Call us for a free inspection today!