Fire Ant
Solenopsis invicta
About the fire ant
Fire ants are one of the most aggressive ant species in the southern US — and they're a growing problem in central North Carolina. Workers swarm and sting in numbers when their mound is disturbed, causing burning welts and pustules that can develop into severe allergic reactions for sensitive people. They build dome-shaped soil mounds with no central opening, often in lawns, pasture edges, and along sidewalk and driveway cracks where the soil stays warm.
Quick ID
Reddish-orange body with darker abdomen; workers come in varied sizes within the same mound.
In the Triangle
Common across the Triangle on sunny lawns, school fields, and the edges of driveways — especially South Durham, Cary, and Raleigh subdivisions.
Think you have fire ants?
Free inspection from a licensed Castle Exterminators technician — Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Cary & the Triangle. We'll confirm the species and recommend a treatment plan.
Request Free Inspection (919) 606-8686
