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. 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 Click on the County's banner below to return to the County's home page.