Red Imported Fire Ant

The red imported fire ant (RIFA) was introduced into the U.S. as early as 1918. Because it is not native to this country, RIFA has no competitors, parasites, or predators to keep their numbers in check. RIFA are general feeders but their primary food is insects such as ticks in woodland areas, fly larvae in animal wastes, leaf-eating caterpillars, and other ground-crawling insects. RIFA infest lawns, school yards, athletic fields and parks. They produce unsightly mounds and their painful stings pose a health threat, particularly to young children and older people.

Control: Many insecticides are available. Contact your local county Clemson Extension office for information about the "two-step method" of RIFA control.