Fire ants are a common problem in many areas of the United States. These aggressive insects can cause painful bites and even pose a threat to those with allergies. If you're wondering whether fire ants are present in Indianapolis and what you can do about them, this article is for you.

Are fire ants local to Indianapolis?

Fire ants are not native to Indiana or even to the United States. They were first imported unintentionally from South America between 1910-1930. Fire ants primarily reside in Southern states such as Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. However, there has been debate in recent years about whether these bothersome ants have made their way to Indiana. In 2022, a newly imported species of stinging ant, the Asian needle ant, was discovered in Indiana. These ants do have a painful sting, though the Asian needle ant is far less territorial and aggressive than the typical fire ant.

So although fire ants are not actually a specie of ant found in or near Indianapolis or Indiana, other species of stinging ants are and should be properly dealt with, especially if they invade our homes or yards.

What can you do about ants in Indianapolis?

If you've discovered ants on your property in Indianapolis, there are several steps you can take to control them. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Eliminate food sources

Ants are attracted to food, so one of the best ways to prevent an ant infestation is to eliminate their food sources. Keep your kitchen clean and free of crumbs and spills. Store your food in sealed containers, and keep your trash cans tightly sealed. If you have pets, make sure their food dishes are clean and free of leftover food.

• Use ant baits

Ant baits are an effective way to get rid of stinging ants. Ant baits contain a slow-acting poison that ants will take back to their colony, killing off the entire colony over time. Place the ant baits near the areas where you see ants, but make sure to keep them out of reach of children and pets.

• Use insecticide spray

If you have many ants in your home, you may need to use an insecticide spray. Look for a spray that is specifically designed to kill ants, and follow the instructions carefully. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from the spray.

• Seal up entry points

Ants can enter your home through even the tiniest of cracks and openings. To prevent ants from entering, seal up any cracks or openings around your windows, doors, and foundation. You can use caulk, weatherstripping, or foam insulation to seal up these areas.

• Call a professional

If you have a severe ant infestation, you may need to call a professional pest control company. A professional can assess the situation and determine the best course of action to get rid of the ants. They may use specialized treatments and techniques that are more effective than what you can do on your own.

Even if they aren’t fire ants, stinging ants can be a real dilemma in Indiana, but there are several things you can do to get rid of them and can keep your home ant-free and comfortable. In Indianapolis, residents can trust Trio Pest Control to keep their homes safe from stinging ants. From start to finish, our services are prompt and reliable, with a focus on customer satisfaction. With thorough inspections and a proactive approach, we can help identify potential ant infestations before they become a problem.