Red ants can sting multiple times. Its stinger is smooth and can be withdrawn cleanly in a way a honeybee’s barbed stinger cannot.
When people think of being stung by insects, their first thought is often of the honeybee. Bees are famous for being able to sting once and only once, so it’s tempting to think that’s also true for other insects. It’s often not, and the red ant is one such example. Make no mistake: it can and will sting you multiple times.
The ant grips the skin with their mandibles, which is the bite that you initially feel. Then it curls its abdomen forward and drives the stinger in. This causes the ant to anchor on and then pivot and sting several times in the same spot.
In Northern Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess, the ant most likely responsible is the European fire ant, an introduced species common across parts of the Northeast. It is small and reddish and tends to nest where the soil is moist. It likes mulch and the spaces under stones and landscape timbers. It’s also quick to defend its nest when disturbed. Gardeners and people mowing near nests tend to get hit most often. The fire ants most people know from the South are a different species and thankfully not established in New York.
Other reddish ants exist here, including some carpenter ants and pavement ants. They may bite and spray formic acid rather than sting. That stings in the sense that it hurts, but it doesn’t feel quite the same.
Reactions to red ant bites are usually local, coming in the form of burning pain, redness, and swelling. This usually goes away in a day or so. To treat, wash the area and use a cold compress. Take an antihistamine if it itches. If you have a history of severe allergic reaction to insect stings, it’s worth seeking out medical care.
The best thing you can do is avoid the ants. Wear gloves when working in mulch beds or moving stones and timbers. And if you're about to kneel down, check for ant traffic first.
If stinging ants have taken over parts of your yard, Mosquito Squad of Northern Westchester can help. Mosquito Squad treats the ant colonies in your yard and around your foundation. This will help you protect the parts of your property your family uses.
