Fire Ants Infest Most Tennessee Counties

The aggressive insects are now established across 87 counties in Tennessee, posing health risks to residents.

Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Allergies

Bold vector editorial illustration of a dark, dome-shaped dirt mound rising from a grassy meadow, representing the expansion of fire ants in Tennessee. — Fire ants have spread to 87 Tennessee counties, as the movement of landscaping materials facilitates the establishment of new colonies. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is now a good time to begin routine property inspections for invasive fire ant mounds?

Fire ants have established a presence in 87 counties across Tennessee. These insects are known for their dome-shaped mounds and a tendency to thrive in open, grassy areas.

Why it matters

The expansion of fire ant colonies increases the risk of human encounters, as warm weather causes the insects to become more active. While most stings are painful but minor, a small percentage of people face severe allergic reactions.

Approximately 97% of individuals experience a burning sensation and pustule development following a sting. Meanwhile, 1% to 3% of the population is hypersensitive to fire ant venom, which can potentially trigger anaphylactic shock.

The details

Human activity, particularly the movement of landscaping materials and heavy equipment, helps spread fire ants to new locations. Newly mated queens also contribute to the population growth by landing on properties to establish fresh colonies.

Fire ants have been established in Tennessee for past decades.

Health Landscape

The spread of fire ants in Tennessee aligns with the long-term historical establishment of Solenopsis invicta across the broader Southern United States. This ongoing expansion forces residents to navigate a shifting landscape where insect-borne health risks are increasingly common in domestic spaces.

Residents should remain cautious in open grassy areas, especially during warmer months when fire ants are most active. Those with known sensitivities to insect venom should maintain access to appropriate emergency medical treatments to manage potential anaphylactic reactions.

The takeaway

Maintaining awareness of dome-shaped mounds in your yard can help prevent accidental stings. If you experience systemic symptoms after a sting, seek immediate medical attention as hypersensitivity can lead to serious health complications.