Fire Ants in Texas: What You Need to Know
Why Are Fire Ants a Problem in Texas?
Fire ants thrive in warm, humid environments, making Texas an ideal habitat. These tiny but aggressive insects can cause major issues, including:
Painful Stings: Fire ants attack in swarms, delivering multiple burning stings that cause itchy, blister-like welts.
Damage to Lawns & Gardens: Fire ants build large mounds that can disrupt grass, flower beds, and even tree roots.
Threat to Wildlife & Pets: They prey on small animals, disrupt ecosystems, and can harm pets with their venomous stings.
Electrical & Structural Damage: Fire ants are known to invade electrical boxes, air conditioning units, and even homes, causing costly damage.
Where Do Fire Ants Nest?
Fire ants are highly adaptable and can build nests almost anywhere. Some of their favorite spots include:
Lawns & Parks – Look for loose, dome-shaped mounds (usually 6–18 inches tall) with no visible entrance.
Gardens & Farmland – They can damage crops and plant roots.
Sidewalks & Driveways – Fire ants sometimes nest under pavement, creating weak spots.
Inside Homes & Buildings – In extreme cases, fire ants invade homes, nesting in walls, attics, or electrical wiring.
How to Identify Fire Ants
Not sure if you’re dealing with fire ants? Here’s what to look for:
Reddish-brown bodies with darker abdomens
Small size (⅛ to ¼ inch long)
Aggressive behavior when disturbed
Painful, burning stings that lead to white pustules
Large, loose soil mounds with no visible entrance hole
How to Get Rid of Fire Ants
Fire ants are tough to eliminate, but with the right approach, you can keep them under control. Here are some effective methods:
1. Use Fire Ant Bait
Bait products contain slow-acting insecticides that worker ants carry back to the colony, killing the queen.
Best applied in spring and fall, when ants are actively foraging.
2. Treat Individual Mounds
Use granular insecticides, liquid drenches, or dust treatments directly on the mound.
Be sure to follow label instructions for best results.
3. Natural & DIY Methods
If you prefer non-chemical solutions, try:
Boiling water – Pouring 2–3 gallons of boiling water on a mound can kill up to 60% of a colony.
Diatomaceous earth – This natural powder dehydrates and kills ants.
Orange oil or citrus-based sprays – Some homeowners find that citrus extracts can help kill fire ants.
4. Professional Fire Ant Control
For large infestations or repeated problems, calling a professional pest control service may be the best option. They can apply long-lasting treatments to keep fire ants away for months.
How to Prevent Fire Ants
Stopping fire ants before they invade is the best approach. Here’s how to reduce the risk of infestations:
Keep your yard clean and dry – Fire ants thrive in moist, cluttered areas.
Apply bait early in the season – Prevent colonies from growing by spreading bait in spring and late summer.
Check for mounds regularly – Treat small mounds before they grow into larger infestations.
Seal cracks and gaps – Prevent ants from entering your home by sealing gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines.
Final Thoughts
Fire ants are a serious nuisance in Texas, but with the right prevention and treatment methods, you can keep them under control. Whether you’re protecting your home, garden, or pets, staying proactive is key to avoiding painful encounters with these aggressive insects.
Have fire ants been a problem for you? Give us a call at 737-232-3255!
