There are many different theories as to why fire ants are called fire ants. One theory is that the name is derived from the fact that these ants are often found near or in fires. Another theory is that the name is a reference to the fact that these ants are known to sting humans and animals causing a burning sensation.
Whatever the origin of the name there is no doubt that fire ants are one of the most feared and despised insects in the world. These tiny pests cause big problems for homeowners farmers and anyone else unfortunate enough to cross their path.
Fire ants are native to South America but they have been accidentally introduced to other parts of the world including the southern United States. These ants are a serious problem in many parts of the world because they are very aggressive and can cause serious injuries with their sting.
Fire ants typically build their nests in the ground. However they are also known to nest in trees bushes and other elevated locations. When fire ants attack they will swarm their victim and sting repeatedly. The stings of fire ants are very painful and can cause serious health problems including death.
If you think you have fire ants on your property it is important to contact a professional pest control company right away. Fire ants are very difficult to control and eliminate so it is best to leave this task to the experts.
What are fire ants?
Fire ants are a type of stinging ant.
Their name comes from the burning sensation you feel when they sting you.
Where do fire ants come from?
Fire ants originated in South America.
How did fire ants get to the United States?
They were accidentally brought over on a ship from South America in the 1930s.
What do fire ants look like?
Fire ants are reddish-brown and have a distinctly segmented body.
They are about 3/8 of an inch long.
What do fire ants eat?
Fire ants eat other insects honeydew (a type of sugary excrement) and plant seeds.
How do fire ants sting?
Fire ants sting by injecting a toxin from their abdomens into their victim.
What does a fire ant sting feel like?
A fire ant sting feels like a burning sensation.
What are the symptoms of a fire ant sting?
Symptoms of a fire ant sting include redness swelling and pain at the site of the sting.
More severe reactions can include difficulty breathing nausea vomiting and even death.
How many times can a fire ant sting?
A fire ant can sting multiple times.
How do you get rid of fire ants?
baiting pouring boiling water on the nest and using insecticides are all effective methods of getting rid of fire ants.
What is the best way to avoid fire ants?
The best way to avoid fire ants is to be aware of their nesting areas and to avoid them.
How do fire ants benefit the environment?
Fire ants help to control populations of other insects and can aerate the soil.
How do fire ants harm the environment?
Fire ants can harm the environment by causing damage to crops and killing other insects.
How do fire ants affect humans?
Fire ants can affect humans by stinging them and causing a burning sensation.
More severe reactions can include difficulty breathing nausea vomiting and even death.
What should you do if you get stung by a fire ant?
If you get stung by a fire ant you should remove the stinger wash the area with soap and water and apply a cool compress.
