NC County Fire Ant Quarantine

Mecklenburg County in North Carolina is in the USDA’s Fire Ant Quarantine Zone because the population is so large. With no natural predators their population is only growing.

Fire ants, due to recent rainfall in Charlotte, NC, are appearing more often and more aggressive than before.

Mounds can be incredibly difficult to see. Even in a small field where the vegetation is just slightly overgrown, it is easy to step right on one.

“You can find them just about anywhere in your landscape: along sidewalks, in the middle of your yard,” said Scott Ewers, who works with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension.

While we may not always see them, the insects have been in the area since the early 1900s. The recent heavy rainfall has flooded the ants’ homes, driving them to the surface where they’ve been attacking park employees all over the county.

If you find one, experts say it’s best to mark it so others don’t step on it. Then, spread your chosen insecticide on and around the mound.

Source: www.wcnc.com.