How Hurricanes Stir Up Fire Ant Activity
As communities across the southern U.S. assess the impact of recent storms Helene and Milton, the fire ant threat is increasing. Following the heavy rains and flooding, fire ant colonies are resurfacing in force, posing risks to both people and property. Known for their painful stings and aggressive behavior, these resilient ants have evolved strategies to survive and even thrive after extreme weather events.
How Fire Ants Survive Storms
After severe storms, fire ants deploy a unique survival tactic—they link their bodies together to form living rafts. These rafts, often discovered floating along floodwaters, protect the ants and help them relocate to new territory once flood levels recede. Their waxy bodies repel water, while their linked rafts ensure survival and migration, which means fire ant colonies can quickly spread after hurricanes.
Why Fire Ants Are More Dangerous Post-Storm
As the floodwaters from storms recede, fire ant colonies emerge in force. The aggressive nature of fire ants makes them a significant threat in areas where humans and animals may be navigating post-storm cleanup. Fire ants defend their mounds by clamping down with their mandibles and delivering venomous stings that feel like burns, leading to painful and potentially dangerous encounters.
How Extinguish® Plus Fire Ant Bait Helps Reduce Post-Hurricane Fire Ant Threats
In the wake of storms like Helene and Milton, you may see fire ants in areas that have never had fire ants in the past. Once the ground has dried, be sure to act to stop these ants in their tracks. Extinguish® Plus fire ant bait offers a comprehensive solution to handle post-storm infestations effectively. Its dual-action formula combines an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR), (S)-methoprene, with an adulticide, Hydramethylnon. This means that not only does Extinguish® Plus immediately reduce the number of aggressive worker ants, but it also halts colony reproduction by sterilizing the queen.
Benefits of Extinguish® Plus Fire Ant Bait for Post-Storm Control:
- Hydramethylnon helps in reducing the population of active workers that pose risks to people and animals during cleanup.
- The IGR component (S)-methoprene disrupts the queen’s ability to reproduce, preventing the colony from rebounding after treatment.
- Extinguish® Plus can be used on a variety of outdoor areas, including residential landscapes and commercial properties, making it ideal for large operations managing post-hurricane fire ant risks.
Timing Is Key—Apply Extinguish® Plus Promptly After Storms
The best time to treat for fire ants is as soon as possible after floodwaters recede and ground is dry. Fire ants are often actively foraging in the wake of a storm, making them more likely to carry bait back to their colonies. A broadcast application of Extinguish® Plus allows the bait to reach even hidden colonies, offering comprehensive control when it’s needed most. For extensive areas, motorized spreaders or aerial applications can ensure that the bait is distributed efficiently.
Protecting Your Operation from Fire Ants Year-Round
Fire ant infestations aren’t limited to hurricane season, and monitoring for activity year-round is essential for large landowners and commercial sites. By applying Extinguish® Plus fire ant bait as part of a regular pest management plan, you can help keep fire ants under control and prevent costly damages associated with their stings and mound building.
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