Both native and Red Imported Fire Ants can sting. Red Imported Fire Ants are very aggressive, and their sting can cause reactions ranging from irritation and nausea to even more severe reactions, only a small percentage of people are allergic. Much like a bee sting, a fire ant sting can be serious, even lethal. Excessive swelling, itching or redness at the site of the sting, or other symptoms like shortness of breath, thickening of the tongue, or profuse sweating are all symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. Seek professional medical attention immediately!

Red Fire Ants are also known to attack animals that intrude on their nests. Besides attacking people and animals they can also cause damage to plants, buildings, air-conditioning units, and telephone wires.