How to inspect your property

Get tips to safely check your property for fire ants. Learn the best time to search for nests.

Where to look for fire ants

Before you start

Before inspecting your land, make sure you know what to look for.

Learn how to identify fire ants and their nests.

Residential homes and yards

It is unlikely to see fire ants inside your home.

Fire ants prefer the outdoors, building nests around houses, yards and fence lines.

You should regularly check:

  • lawns and garden beds
  • footpaths, driveways and the verge
  • near water sources
  • utility pits such as water and gas meters.

Rural farms and properties

If you live or work on a rural property, acreage or farm, pay close attention to:

  • dams and irrigation lines
  • edges of cultivated land
  • cropland
  • fence lines
  • piles of organic matter.

When to check for fire ants

Fire ants are easier to see during certain seasons and weather conditions. You also need to check for fire ants before moving some materials.

When nests and ants are most visible

Fire ants and nests are easier to see:

  • after rain or floods, when fire ants may build their nests higher
  • on warm days (between about 20°C and 30°C), when fire ants are more active above ground
  • during the cooler months when fire ants build their nests higher to stay warm.

When nests are harder to see

Fire ant nests are more difficult to see:

  • during the summer, as fire ants tend to go underground to shelter from the heat
  • during drought, when fire ants go underground to access moisture
  • before a nest has matured, it can take several months for a new nest to become visible.

Before moving or transporting materials

You may need to check that materials don’t have fire ants before moving them. Use the material movement advice tool to help you understand your obligations.

How to safely check for fire ants

Wear protective clothing

When checking your yard or property, protect yourself from stings by covering any exposed skin.

We recommend you wear a long-sleeve shirt, long pants, boots and gloves.

Carry a long stick with you to check for possible nests without using your hands.

Avoid disturbing ants or nests if you have a medical condition or if children, pets or vulnerable people are nearby.

Next steps