Fire Ant Bites: What They Look Like, How to Treat

They’re venomous, and their color alone lets you know they’re not to be messed with. But sometimes it’s too late, and there they are, latching onto your skin. Discover what fire ants are, how to spot them, what their bites look and feel like, and what treatments to use if they get you!

What Are Fire Ants?

Fire ants are an aggressive, invasive species found throughout the southern region of the U.S. They get their name from their fiery appearance, which is a mix of brown and reddish tones. Fire ants have an oval shape, and they have antennae. They only grow to 1/4” long, but despite being tiny and generally interested in crop plants, an encounter with them is sure to give you something to remember them by.

Where Are Fire Ants Found?

These fiery creepy crawlies are native to the southern region of Brazil. However, they have been imported to the southern portions of the U.S., which include states like Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama. They are also found a bit further up in South Carolina and even North Carolina. They nest in the soil of open, sunny areas (which may include your yard).

Why Do Fire Ants Bite Humans?

If fire ants perceive you as a threat, they lash out aggressively. The problem is that you may just be minding your own business, walking through their nest without realizing it. A fire ant nest creates a mound, so when you’re out and about walking through your yard or other open, sunny area, be sure to check where you’re stepping. Once a fire ant perceives a threat, it’s game on. And it’s not pretty.

What Fire Ant Bites Look Like

Fire ants hit you with a double whammy. They bite your skin and snap their jaws shut. Then, they start to turn their bodies in a circular motion, also stinging you with their back stingers (that’s how they inject their venom). The fire ant bite site ends up looking like a circular pattern. As if a welt on your skin isn’t unsightly and uncomfortable enough, the bites/stings end up converting into blisters.

What Fire Ant Bites Feel Like

The first indication that a fire ant has invaded your skin is the pain. Depending on your pain threshold, the feeling may be laughable. However, in rare cases, the venom may cause a life-threatening reaction. In addition to the pain, you start to itch. About a day later, the blisters fill up with pus. It takes at least a week for them to go away.

How to Treat Fire Ant Bites

First, remove the ants by brushing them off your skin. Then, wash your skin using soap and cool water. For the itch, take an antihistamine. Next, use a cold compress for the pain and pick up a hydrocortisone cream to alleviate the rash. For severe reactions, seek medical care.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © wnarong/Shutterstock.com