Fire Ant Season Is Here: What Every Homeowner Should Be Doing This Month

May marks the beginning of increased fire ant activity in many regions, particularly across the southern United States. As soil temperatures rise and spring rains soak the ground, these aggressive pests become more active—building new colonies, expanding territory, and making your yard a potential target.

Fire ants, especially the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), are more than just a nuisance. They deliver painful stings that can cause a burning sensation and pustules within 24 hours. While most people experience localized irritation, about 1% of the population may have serious allergic reactions. If you or a family member is sensitive to insect stings, it's important to take preventive steps early and talk to a medical professional about emergency treatment options.

So what should you be doing this month? Here's a simple and effective fire ant prevention plan:

Step 1: Monitor Your Yard Weekly

Regular yard monitoring is one of the most effective ways to detect fire ant activity early. Focus especially on the borders and edges of your property, as fire ants are drawn to structural elements like sidewalks, fences, AC units, and landscaping borders. These areas provide stability, warmth, and some protection from foot traffic.

When inspecting, pay close attention to:

• Flowerbeds and garden plots

• The base of trees, shrubs, or exterior walls

• Under or near HVAC units and electrical boxes

• Freshly mulched or sodded areas

• Irrigation zones and water sources
  

Fire ant mounds can appear quickly after rainfall and often look like loose, fluffy piles of dirt. They may not always have a visible opening on top, so look for signs of disturbed soil or granules that seem recently turned.

Step 2: Apply a Long-Term Bait Treatment

For long-term control, now is the ideal time to apply fire ant bait—especially if you want a single, effective annual treatment.

Our top recommendation? A professional-grade bait like Top Choice. It’s a standout option because:

• It resembles kitty litter and can be easily spread across your yard.

• It has a high transfer rate, meaning ants carry it deep into the colony where it reaches the queen.

• It doesn’t kill on contact, so ants don’t detect or avoid it.

• It also prevents pheromone release, which reduces the chance of new colonies forming nearby.

• It’s safe for pets once watered in, making it a great option for families.
  

Application Tips:

• Choose a dry day with no rain forecast for 24–48 hours.

• Spread bait across your entire yard—don’t just target visible mounds.

• Apply in the morning or late afternoon when ants are most active.

• Always follow label instructions for best results.
  

Most baits require 1–3 weeks to show noticeable effects, but the benefits can last several months with the right application.

Step 3: Understand Risk Factors 

Several conditions can increase fire ant activity or colonization:

• Soil disturbance from construction or landscaping

• Periods following rainfall

• Food sources, including pet food left outdoors

• Warm, sunny areas (fire ants prefer soil temperatures above 70°F/21°C)

Fire ants can travel considerable distances to establish new colonies, particularly during mating flights when winged reproductives (alates) can travel several miles. This means even well-maintained properties can experience new colonies through natural migration from surrounding areas.

It's important to note that fire ant management typically requires ongoing monitoring and periodic re-treatment, as complete eradication is difficult in areas where fire ants are established.

Step 4: Partner With Professionals

Managing fire ants isn’t a one-and-done task. It requires strategy, consistency, and in many cases, a professional eye. That’s why our technicians include fire ant inspections during every quarterly service visit. We’re not just treating what we see—we’re looking for early warning signs before they become a bigger issue.

Why consider professional services?

• Access to powerful, longer-lasting treatments

• Precision targeting of high-risk areas

• Ongoing monitoring and retreatment schedules

• Peace of mind for families with allergies or large properties

Stay Ahead of Fire Ants—Year After Year

Whether you’re already seeing mounds pop up or just want to stay ahead of the season, now is the time to act. Don’t wait for fire ants to take over your yard or threaten your family and pets.

Book a consultation today to schedule a property inspection and learn about long-term treatment options like Top Choice. Our technicians are trained to create custom fire ant control plans that work with your lifestyle and landscape—keeping your yard safe, comfortable, and ant-free all season long.