Red imported fire ants (RIFA, for short) are more aggressive than other ant species and have a painful sting. These ants and their telltale mound nests should be actively avoided. Red imported fire ants can adapt to many climates and conditions in and around their environment. For example, if the colony senses increased water levels in their nests, they will come together and form a huge ball or raft that is able to float on the water!

Size: 1/8″ to 3/8″
Shape: Segmented, oval
Color: Dark reddish brown
Legs: 6
Wings: Varies
Antenna: Yes

Common Name: Red imported fire ant
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Formicidae
Species: Solenopsis invicta

Diet:
They primarily feed on vegetation.

Habitat:
Red imported fire ants will build their nests in mounds of soil outdoors, in landscape areas or near a building’s foundation. They occasionally enter buildings through holes or cracks in walls and foundations.