Red Imported Fire Ant (RIFA)

Infestations of Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA) have been detected in San Diego County. Four infestations, all located in the northern portion of the county, have been controlled. Agriculture personnel are aggressively treating infestations in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties.

RIFA are a threat to human health. The ants are aggressive and will swarm anything that disturbs them. RIFA anchor themselves with their mouthparts and then sting repeatedly. The sting causes an intense burning sensation at the sting site, followed by the development of a pustule. Ten to 20 stings per attack are common. While you cannot positively identify these ants by just looking at them, they are reddish brown and small - 1/16" to 1/4" long (similar in size to the common argentine ant).

RIFA are a threat to California agriculture, property and landscaping. The ants feed on germinating seeds and damage crops. They can cause damage to structures, electrical equipment, gardens and landscaping.

RIFA can be found where there is moisture and good drainage. Typical locations include greenbelts and lawns, the bases of tree trunks, curbs adjoining lawn areas, and bedded plants. RIFA may be found in areas that have been recently landscaped.

Red Imported Fire Ants make mounds, very similar to gopher mounds, except the soil deposited is of a finer texture. Mounds vary from about the size of a golf ball to a basketball. On warm days, stomping adjacent to the mound will very quickly bring ants to the surface.

If you believe you have RIFA, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TREAT THEM YOURSELF. Call the Ant Hotline at 800-200-2337 for additional information or to obtain an Ant Submission Kit. County personnel will assist you in identifying RIFA and will treat colonies at no cost to you. Please help by reporting any RIFA mounds you find.

Additional information is available at the website of the California Department of Food and Agriculture

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