Recognizing fire ant mounds in an area can help you stay away from them and protect yourself from bites. Fire ant mounds are usually larger, and can be up to around 18 inches (45 cm) high and 30 inches (76 cm) wide. Fire ant mounds don’t have holes in the top that they crawl in and out of. They get into the mound from underground. Fire ants like to build their mounds in open sunny areas or in areas near food. You can find them around stumps, sidewalks, trees, the edges of roads, and rotting logs. They may also be in flowerbeds, on playgrounds, or on sports fields.  You are more likely to run across fire ants or fire ant mounds if you are outdoors in the southeastern United States. They live in milder climates with consistent humidity levels.  Fire ants are also found in the western and southwestern US, but they are not as common. Fire ants can be in almost any sunny area with grass, woods, or fields. You may encounter fire ants on trees or even in the water. Before working or spending time in an area, search the area for any signs of fire ants.  Identifying fire ant mounds in the area can keep you safe. Even if you can’t find a mound, knowing there are fire ants around can help you be more vigilant and watch where you are stepping or touching. Look around stumps, trees, or rotting logs for fire ant mounds. You may also find them around picnic sites, garbage cans, or even on the side of the road. To prevent stings, you should know what to look for so you can stay away. Fire ants can vary in size from ⅛ in (3mm) to ¼ in (6mm). They have a redder color than other ants, usually being reddish-brown and black. Sometimes, they have wings.

Summary:
Identify fire ant mounds. Look for fire ants in open sunny areas. Examine an area for any evidence of fire ants. Learn to recognize a fire ant.