Fire Ant Presence in Virginia
Yes, fire ants are present in Virginia. The first infestation of imported fire ants was detected in Virginia in 1989. These invasive ants, primarily red imported fire ants (RIFA), have become established in the state. Their presence is a result of both natural spread from nearby infested areas and human-assisted movement of infested materials.
Imported fire ants are believed to have arrived in the United States from South America in the 1930s, likely through ships. Since their initial detection in Virginia, their populations have continued to expand. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has been monitoring their spread and implementing measures to manage them.
Identifying Fire Ants
Identifying fire ants involves recognizing their physical characteristics and the appearance of their nests. Red imported fire ants range from 1/16 to 1/4 inch long, with queens averaging about 1/4 inch. Their bodies are reddish-brown, often with a darker, shiny black abdomen. They possess a two-segmented pedicel (waist) and ten-segmented antennae with a two-segmented club.
Fire ant nests, or mounds, are a distinctive visual cue. These mounds are loose, irregularly shaped piles of soil without a visible entry or exit hole. While mounds can vary in size, undisturbed ones can reach up to 18 inches high and 24 inches wide, becoming dome-shaped over time. They are found in open, sunny areas like lawns, pastures, and along sidewalks, but can also be near structures or in electrical boxes. If a mound is disturbed, hundreds of aggressive ants will swarm out, rapidly climbing and stinging anything nearby.
Geographic Distribution in Virginia
Fire ants are primarily found in the southeastern and south-central regions of Virginia. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has established and expanded a quarantine zone to manage their spread. This quarantine, first established in the Tidewater area in 2009, has expanded multiple times, most recently in 2025.
The current quarantine covers 18 counties and 15 cities across the state. These include counties like Chesterfield, Lee, and Prince George, as well as cities such as Colonial Heights, Danville, and Petersburg. While red imported fire ants prefer warmer climates, a hybridized species, more tolerant to cold, has been detected in southwestern Virginia, indicating a potential for further range expansion. VDACS actively attempts to eradicate new infestations found outside of the quarantined areas.
Risks and Response to Stings
Fire ant stings are painful and can cause various reactions. The immediate sensation is a sharp, burning pain, similar to a match being applied to the skin. Within minutes to an hour, itchy bumps or welts develop, often in a circular pattern, turning into fluid-filled blisters or pustules within 24 hours. These pustules are diagnostic for fire ant stings, are sterile, but can become infected if scratched or broken. The itching can persist for days or even weeks.
While most reactions are localized, some individuals may experience more severe responses. Multiple stings can lead to widespread swelling, and in rare cases, a severe life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can occur. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include hives, difficulty breathing, throat swelling, dizziness, rapid heart rate, and a drop in blood pressure. If any signs of a systemic or anaphylactic reaction appear, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. For mild stings, washing the affected area with soap and water, applying cold compresses, and using over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream can help alleviate symptoms.
Managing Fire Ant Infestations
Managing fire ant infestations involves both preventative measures and control strategies. Homeowners can reduce the likelihood of infestations by maintaining their yards, as fire ants prefer overgrown areas. Regularly mowing the lawn, trimming shrubs, and promptly removing leaf piles and other yard debris can make an area less appealing for nesting. Sealing cracks and gaps in foundations, walls, and windows can prevent ants from entering homes. Eliminating sources of excess moisture, such as leaky pipes, also helps, as fire ants are attracted to water.
For existing infestations, control methods include baiting and mound treatments. Fire ant baits work by attracting ants, which then carry the bait back to the colony, ultimately affecting the entire population. Mound treatments involve applying an insecticide directly to the mound. When encountering fire ants, it is important to avoid disturbing their mounds, as this can provoke aggressive swarming. If an infestation is severe or persistent, or if individuals have allergies, consulting with a pest control professional is advisable.