Fire ants and Residential Properties
There are kinds of ants that can take over your home. The Wasmannia auropunctata or fire ants as we know them, are stinging ants and can be recognized by their dark abdomen and coppery- reddish, brown heads. They eat plants and seeds but also have been known to attack and kill small animals. They fight back when disturbed. If you come close to them, they will sting you.
Where can they be found?
They live in ant colonies called mounds and often nest in soil. You can find a mound near wet places like river banks or even watered lawns. They build their mounds under logs, rocks, bricks and other things.
These ants may have more than one queen in their nests and produce rapidly. In residential areas, they often enter buildings through window and wall cracks and can often be found wherever mess is. If food, drinks or pet food have been spilled or garbage is nearby, the ants may be attracted to them.
They are also attracted to any place where there is moisture (roofs, walls and near faucet, etc.) Be careful moving objects like plants and toys into your home as they can build nests in them. They also often choose mulch as a place to build their nests.
Are they harmful to humans?
The ants can be very aggressive and can take hold of their victims by biting and stinging from their abdomen. At this point, they are able to inject alkaloid venom. When humans get stung, it feels like they have been burned. People may require medical attention right away if bitten (as some people are allergic and may become anaphylactic).
If you have these pests near your residence and think you have been bitten by fire ants, look for these important symptoms: a bump that is irritated and then turns white and full of pus (this can be a sign of infection and lead to potential scarring). If you or anyone you know experiences nausea, loss of breath, chest pain or other symptoms after being bitten make sure to seek medical advice right away as the stings can be fatal.
What can we do to get rid of them?
There are a few options to take care of the problem. If ants have already entered your home and are living in your walls or roof or anywhere else, then you should consult professionals. Our trustworthy technicians will be able to help you by locating the entry points, the mounds and then they will treat the problem.
Our experts know how to safely use quick-kill insecticides and how to handle the nest, so you will not get stung or harm yourself, others or your pets. We will find the colony, seal entry points and put a bait product around the area of infestation and your yard to prevent any future insect infestations. Call us today and any one of our skilled staff members will be able to answer any questions. Book your service appointment today. Fire Ants Ottawa, ON call (613) 209-1880.
