How can I tell the difference between fire ants and some of the common native ants?

Fire ant workers are polymorphic, which means that their workers can vary in size from 1/16 to almost 1/4 inch long. In contrast, native ant species’ workers are uniform in size.

Imported fire ant mounds can sometimes reach 3 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter. Fire ants are highly aggressive and will bite and sting when disturbed. Their sting produces a burning sensation, and in a day or so a white pustule may form at the site.

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