Farmers and landowners are contending with a new pest - the invasive hybrid fire ant that's marching into fields and pastures in Virginia.
Virginia Cooperative Extension Service agent Amy Byington in Lee County has received calls from more than 20 farmers and landowners reporting hybrid fire ant mounds on their properties. Due to their aggressive nature, the ants pose a threat to people, wildlife and livestock - particularly newborn animals. When their mounds are disturbed, the ants release pheromones that alert the colony to swarm and attack.
In addition to delivering painful stings, fire ants can chew irrigation tubes and electrical wiring, and sometimes feed on germinating seeds and developing flowers or fruit. Their mounds range from almost flat to 24 inches tall, and can damage agricultural equipment.
"You think you're dealing with one (ant) and being careful, but then they'll be up your pants in no time."
Amy Byington Virginia Cooperative Extension Service agent
While southeastern Virginia has long dealt with red imported fire ants, their preference for warmer climates limited their spread. However, the hybridized species - a result of interbreeding between red and black imported fire ants - are more cold-tolerant, adaptable and aggressive, and can fly up to two miles to establish new colonies.
Already found in Georgia, Alabama, central Mississippi, Tennessee and Kentucky, they were first detected in Lee County in fall 2021. And their range is expanding farther than experts anticipated.
"They're coming to other Virginia counties," Byington cautioned, noting there have been reports of isolated cases in other parts of Virginia.