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Meet the Fire Ant: How to Identify and Get Rid of Them Safely

fire ant control in the Lowcountry

Don’t Let Fire Ants Crash Your Backyard Party! Here's What to Do

If you live in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, chances are you’ve had an unfortunate encounter with fire ants. These aggressive pests are more than just a nuisance—their painful stings and ability to damage lawns and property make them a serious problem for homeowners and businesses alike. Here’s how to identify fire ants and what you can do to get rid of them safely.

What Do Fire Ants Look Like?

Fire ants are small but mighty. Workers range from 1/8 to 1/4 inch long and are reddish-brown with darker abdomens. One of their tell-tale signs is their nests: large, irregular mounds that can grow up to 18 inches high and have no obvious entrance hole. These mounds are often found in open, sunny areas like lawns, pastures, or along sidewalks.

 

If you disturb a mound, you’ll quickly see hundreds of angry ants swarm to defend their home. Fire ants are known for their aggressive behavior and will sting repeatedly, causing painful, itchy welts that may form pustules.

Why Are Fire Ants a Problem?

Fire ants aren’t just a backyard inconvenience. Their stings can pose health risks, especially for children, pets, or anyone allergic to their venom. Beyond the health hazards, fire ants can damage plants, electrical equipment, and even livestock. Their mounds can ruin landscaping

and make outdoor areas unsafe for play or relaxation.

How to Get Rid of Fire Ants Safely

While DIY methods like pouring boiling water on mounds or using store-bought baits might provide temporary relief, fire ant colonies are resilient and often relocate or rebuild. For lasting control, it’s essential to target the entire colony, including the queen.

Professional pest control services use targeted treatments that are both effective and safe for your family, pets, and the environment. These methods not only eliminate existing colonies but also help prevent future infestations.

At Old South Exterminators, we have over 50 years of industry-leading experience and all of our technicians are highly trained in the latest treatments and methods, so you can always feel confident when our team pulls up.

Don’t Let Fire Ants Take Over Your Yard

If you’re dealing with fire ants on your property, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Call Old South Exterminators today to schedule a professional inspection and treatment. Our experienced team knows how to tackle fire ant infestations in the Lowcountry, providing safe, effective solutions that protect your home and family. Contact us now to reclaim your outdoor spaces!

Take advantage of $50 off your initial pest control service with Old South Exterminators!