more... > Insects and Relatives > Ants > Red Imported Fire Ants > Fire Ant Quiz [Image: Red Imported Fire Ants Quiz] This interactive and fun quiz will challenge your knowledge of Red Imported Fire Ants. Distributors of Fire Ant Bait The public can order any fire ant bait through local hardware stores, nurseries or coop/feed stores. Sisters Fight Fire Ants With Large-scale Treatments [Image: Fire Ants ] Stepping outdoors was like being under attack for one homeowner. Fire ants were everywhere in her yard. Her sister’s pasture also was under siege. So they turned to an LSU AgCenter entomologist for help. (Runtime: 1 minute, 47 seconds) Parishes with Spreaders for Area-wide Programs [Image: Louisiana map] Map showing parishes that have a spreader available for use in area wide application of fire ant baits. Listing of locations by parish that have implemented the area wide program.  more articles... Bug Biz: Fire Ants [Image: Fire Ants] The red imported fire ant, a Louisiana resident since the early 1950s, can be a painful pest or a beneficial friend. Depending on your situation, you may want to manage these ants or simply let them go about their helpful way. Eradication vs. management of the fire ant is discussed in this fact sheet. Scientists work to control the threat of fire ants [Image: hoopertruck] Red imported fire ants are not just a nuisance. They pose a health threat to many individuals allergic to their sting. LSU AgCenter entomologists are working to control these pests. Research Confirms Storms Eliminated Fire Ants In Some Areas The destructive force of tidal surges from hurricanes Katrina and Rita at least had one benefit – controlling fire ants, according to researchers from the LSU AgCenter. LSU AgCenter entomologist Dr. Linda Hooper-Bui recently said field surveys in the area of Plaquemines, St. Bernard and Orleans parishes area after Hurricane Katrina and in Southwest Louisiana after Hurricane Rita showed the fire ant population was far below normal in areas flooded by storm surge. Managing Imported Fire Ants in Urban Areas [Image: Managing Imported Fire Ants in Urban Areas] Properly identifying the ant species is the first step in determining whether and how to control them. In this publication there are options for managing various kinds of imported fire ant problems. Red Imported Fire Ant Colony Diagnostics Using Worker Head Widths [Image: Image] The purpose of this study was to determine if differences in worker size are indicative of social form for Solenopsis invicta colonies in Louisiana. Bait Amounts for RIFA - Table This table indicates the amount of bait in ounces and tablespoons needed per square foot for effective control of fire ants. Broadcast Baits for Fire Ant Control [Image: Fire Ant Control] A Southern IPM Center publication. When choosing a broadcast bait to control imported fire ants, consumers and professional pesticide applicators face a confusing array of brand names and active ingredients with varying product performances. This guide addresses common concerns about broadcast baits to help consumers and professionals choose products that best fit their needs and situations. (PDF Format Only) Be On Lookout For Fire Ants In Areas Where Flooding Occurred Fire ants can be a serious problem after hurricanes – particularly in flooded areas, according to experts with the LSU AgCenter.