Do we have fire ants in Massachusetts?
There exists 280 fire ant species in the world, many of which have established an invasive presence in the US. While this species is not found in Massachusetts, another fire ant species, the European fire ant, was documented as inhabiting the state way back in 1908.
Do fire ants live in New England?
Yes, its true we really do have ‘fire’ ants in New England, but it is not the southern species you may be familiar with. They’ve actually been around for over a century. Myrmica rubra or European Fire Ant was first discovered and written about as a new invasive species by W.M. Wheeler in Massachusetts in 1908.
Where would you find European fire ants?
The European fire ant is an invasive pest in North America whose native range is in Europe and northern Asia. It is named after the burning, itching sensation that its sting produces.
Are European fire ants poisonous?
True to their name, the sting from a fire ant causes painful burns. After biting, the ant uses its stinger to release a venom comprised of alkaloids, and proteins that can cause allergic reactions. Stings result in burning, itching and localized inflammation that can last for many days.
Do we have red ants in Massachusetts?
Myrmica rubra Linnaeus, often called the European fire or red ant, is an adventive species found mainly in the northeastern United States. It was first discovered in Massachusetts in 1908 by Wheeler (1908).
Do fire ants live in NH?
European fire ants also sometimes nest in potted plants. Although these fire ants have been in our region for over 100 years, they have only recently received attention in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. In Maine, the ants have become established in humid places along the coast.
How big are European fire ants?
about 3/16 inch long
European fire ants (also known as European red ants, Myrmica rubra) are very small red ants. The workers are about 3/16 inch long (as long as this line: ) and the queens are a little larger.
What are the red ants in Massachusetts?
Myrmica rubra Linnaeus, often called the European fire or red ant, is an adventive species found mainly in the northeastern United States. It was first discovered in Massachusetts in 1908 by Wheeler (1908). This stinging ant species is considered to be a potential health and ecological risk to the U.S.
What kills European fire ants?
Bait-formulated pesticides are the most effective treatment. Baits consist of an insecticide blended with sugar, oil or protein food sources. They work better than insecticides applied directly to foraging ants because they are carried back to the nest and fed to queens and brood, thereby killing most ants in the nest.
Are there fire ants on Cape Cod?
Types of Ants Common to Cape Cod. Some of the most common types of ants in Massachusetts include acrobat ants, carpenter ants, field ants, little black ants, pavement ants and fire ants.
Are there fire ants in the Northeast?
Myrmica rubra Linnaeus, often called the European fire or red ant, is an adventive species found mainly in the northeastern United States.