Little Fire Ants

The Little Fire Ants are tiny (1/16 inch) orange-red ants that deliver a painful sting. They are native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. These ants are arboreal which means that they nest in trees and plants, as well as on the ground. They infest a multitude of areas such as forests, agricultural fields, yards, and houses. These ants are a threat to native species because they sting and eat insects and baby birds. 

The little fire ants can affect the economy, environment, our health, and our quality of life. The little fire ants affect our economy by scaring away tourists who are informed of the little fire ant invasion in Hawaii and do not come to Hawaii knowing that these invasive ants are here. Our agriculture is affected by these small ants because some of the local farmers in Hawaii have given up and abandoned their farm because of the threats of the little fire ants. All of Hawaii's unique native forest birds are at risk because the little fire ants eat baby birds. Pets are very vulnerable especially if they are outside pets. LFA are attracted to the moisture around the pets eyes and when they sting the pets eyes it causes karatopathy, or clouded cornea which results in blindness. The little fire ants pose a threat to our way of life making activities such as camping or having picnics a danger.