Red Imported Fire Ant

Red Imported Fire Ant

Solenopsis invicta

insects

How to Identify

Red imported fire ants are reddish-brown with a darker abdomen, ranging from 1/8 to 1/4 inch long. They are easily identified by their aggressive behavior and the raised, dome-shaped mounds they create in the soil. These ants inflict a painful, burning sting when disturbed.

Signs of Infestation

Look for mounds of loose soil that can reach up to 18 inches in diameter, particularly in sunny areas of your lawn or garden. These mounds often appear after rainfall. Be cautious around these mounds, as the ants will swarm out and sting if disturbed, especially around your Myrtle Beach property.

Health Risks

Red imported fire ant stings cause a burning sensation, followed by itchy welts that can develop into pustules. Some individuals are allergic and may experience severe reactions requiring medical attention. In Myrtle Beach, avoid disturbing ant mounds to minimize the risk of stings, especially for children and pets.

Our Treatment Method

MBPC offers targeted treatments to eliminate fire ant colonies on your Grand Strand property. Our licensed technicians use granular baits and direct mound treatments that are approved by the SC Department of Pesticide Regulation. We recommend a combination of treatment methods for effective, long-term control of these stinging pests.

EPA-approved products · Licensed technicians · Satisfaction guaranteed

Prevention Tips

Keep your lawn and garden well-maintained to reduce favorable nesting sites. Regularly inspect your property for new mounds, particularly after rain. Avoid leaving food scraps or sugary substances outdoors that may attract these pests to your Myrtle Beach area home.

Habitat

Red imported fire ants thrive in the warm, humid climate of coastal South Carolina. They prefer sunny, open areas with well-drained soil. These ants are commonly found in lawns, gardens, pastures, and along roadsides throughout the Myrtle Beach area.

Peak activity: Year-Round

Identification Photos

Frequently Asked Questions About Red Imported Fire Ant

Rain saturates the soil, encouraging fire ants to move their colony closer to the surface, resulting in newly visible mounds. These mounds are more easily spotted following rainfall in the Myrtle Beach area.

Teach children and pets to avoid ant mounds and never disturb them. Regularly inspect your yard and treat any mounds you find. Wearing shoes and gloves while gardening can further reduce the risk of stings in Myrtle Beach.

Fire ants in the Myrtle Beach area exhibit the same aggressive behavior as fire ants elsewhere. Their aggressive nature is a key characteristic of the species, especially when their mounds are disturbed.

The most effective way to eliminate fire ants is with professional treatments. MBPC offers comprehensive fire ant control services tailored to the unique needs of Myrtle Beach lawns, using proven methods for long-term control.

Don't Let Pests Win.
Take Back Your Home Today.

Every day you wait gives pests more time to multiply and cause damage. Our licensed technicians are ready to help — often the same day you call.

Free Inspection

No cost, no obligation

Same-Day Service

Fast response guaranteed

Eco-Friendly

Safe for family & pets

100% Guarantee

Pests return, so do we

Ready to get started?

Choose how you'd like to connect with us.

Available Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-2pm