Fire Ant Control

Fire Ant Control

Especially with fire ants, sometimes it’s best to call in the troops—professional pest management. Other treatments may prove ineffective and actually enable the nest to become more established. In areas where the fire ant is considered a native or in areas where there has been a large-scale infestation, such as Texas and Florida, there is more of a “control” focus on fire ant infestations. However, in areas where the fire ant is not a native, the focus is on eradication. The longer a nest has been around, the harder it is to get rid of, but it can be done. Here’s how the pros do it:

• Insecticide barriers: This treatment is way more effective than any “No trespassing!” signs you may have put up. It consists of putting insecticide chemicals on or close to places of entry for fire ants. One example involves putting a coating of insecticide on door sills to kill or repel intruding fire ants.
• Poisoned baits: Sponsor a feast for your unwanted guests. This treatment entails putting out toxic bait that the ants readily carry back to their humble abode for their—unbeknownst to them—last meal.
• Nest toxicants: Make it rain on their parade. The most effective of all treatments involves dousing the nest and surrounding area directly with toxicants. This is best when the nest is located outside (which is where most fire ants build their nests, lucky for you).