Fire Ants!

Fire ants can cause problems in structures if the workers are habitually foraging in the structure for food. These areas can be partially protected from ants originating in outdoor mounds by applying barrier sprays or dusts of residual insecticides to the soil and foundations around a building. However, this type of treatment is not as effective of a treatment of the nest itself.

Nests often require several treatments, especially if they are large and well established. Direct mound injection and drenches can be used successfully to reduce or eliminate the colony. Baits containing an insect growth regulator have been known to be the most successful in eliminating colonies. Seven to ten days after the application of an IGR bait a residual should be applied to the immediate area to kill foraging workers. Interior areas should be thoroughly treated with residual insecticides, especially in areas where ants appear to be gaining access.