The Logan County office of the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service will hold a Fire Ant Field Day with UA Extension Entomologist Dr. Kelly Loftin on Wednesday, April 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Paris High School campus.
Dr. Loftin will conduct a demonstration on an active mound and talk about the newest control methods as well as the life cycle and habits of this invasive pest.
Imported fire ants were introduced into the United States from South America over 70 years ago. The first documented infestation in Arkansas was found in El Dorado in 1958. Currently, they infest most of the southern half of Arkansas, and have been found in the northern reaches of the state.
Fire ants are reddish brown and range from 1/8” to 1/4” in length. In addition to their physical characteristics and aggressive swarming behavior, they are identified by their painful sting, which produces a small pustule (white bump) on the victim within eight to 24 hours.
Fire Ants have infested all parts of Logan County. Fire ants are serious pests, but fortunately their impact can be minimized through patience and integrated pest management methods.