Insect · Moderate risk
European Fire Ant
The European fire ant (Myrmica rubra), also called the European red ant, is an invasive species from Europe that is established in Quebec. Small and a uniform reddish brown, it nests in damp, shady soil, with no visible mound. Unlike carpenter ants, it has a working stinger and stings repeatedly when you get near its nest.
3.5 to 5.5 mm · Uniform reddish brown
§1Distinctive features
How to identify it
Workers measure 3.5 to 5.5 mm and are all the same size, the queen being only slightly larger. The colour is a uniform reddish brown, with no contrasting black abdomen. It does not spray formic acid: it bites to hold on, then stings with a stinger connected to a venom gland.
§2Habitat
Where to find it
It nests in damp, shady soil: wooded edges, lawns, flower beds, hedge borders, under flat stones, boards, logs and leaf litter. There is no visible mound, which makes the nests hard to find. There can be 10 to 12 nests in a 3 m by 3 m area.
§3Reproduction
Lifecycle
Left alone, the colony spreads by budding and gains ground from one season to the next.
§4What to look out for
Signs of infestation
- Nests with no mound under stones, boards, logs and leaf litter
- Intense ant activity around the nest
- Painful, repeated stings as soon as you get near the nest
- Nests very close together: up to 10 to 12 nests in 3 m by 3 m
§5Why act fast
Risks
- Burning stings that leave a red patch 2.5 to 10 cm wide, painful for 4 to 8 hours
- Yard, lawn and outdoor spaces no longer usable for the family
- Possible allergic reactions in sensitive people
§6Prevention
How to avoid it
- Reduce soil moisture: water less, let in more sun, keep the grass short
- Move woodpiles and plant debris away from the foundation
- Call a professional if the nest is too close to the house
- Do not disturb nests without protection
§7Pro method
How MW works
Inspection
On-site species identification and assessment of the property.
Preparation
Customized plan · steps to take before the visit.
Treatment
Locating the main nest and satellite nests, treatment with non-repellent baits.
Follow-up
Control visit · written guarantee offered depending on the treatment chosen.
§8Your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
Is it dangerous?
Do all the nests have to be destroyed?
How can I protect myself?
Identifying the species changes the treatment completely: a European fire ant is not treated like a carpenter ant. Our technicians identify the species on site before any application, as part of our ant extermination service. For an active problem, see our pages for Granby, Sherbrooke, Magog and Bromont.
React quickly, take back your yard.
The longer the infestation lasts, the more expensive it becomes.
