As mentioned in a previous blog post, fire ants are attracted to areas with warmer soil temperatures (around paved surfaces, bare soil and near electric boxes or motors). If fire ants come in direct contact with electrical current, the electric shock will release a pheromone that likely attracts other worker ants to the area. These pictures were taken May 3, 2018 around lights placed around a water fountain. This giant mound has been a work in progress for some time but vigilant monitoring and early treatment could have prevented the loss of these fixtures.
For control recommendations, please visit the fire ants in commercial turf or in pastures, depending on mound location. Be aware that there are a number of restrictions and guidelines with fire ant products, particularly if humans or animals are involved, so be sure to read the label carefully prior to application.