They are not aggressive and only bite in self-defense. This ant is a serious pest and we need to locate infested sites in our area. RIFA presents to California agriculture, it poses serious human health risks. At sites where there is moisture and good drainage, i.e. greenbelt areas, the base of tree trunks, curbs adjoining lawn areas, bedded plants, etc. Ground that has been recently landscaped.
Mounds vary in size, anywhere from that of a basketball to that of a golf ball.
On warm days, stomping adjacent to the mound will quickly bring ants to the surface in a defense response. Ant stings resulting in a burning sensation followed by the development of a pustule on the skin. This is a reminder that residents are NOT permitted to leave garage doors open. Vehicles are not permitted to park in front of any garage for any length of time. This is stated in the Palo Verde Parking Policies, and is a violation of the state Fire Safety Code.