Fire ant baits contain a food attractant, such as soybean oil, and an insecticide or insect growth regulator. The food attractant entices fire ant workers to pick up the bait particles and carry them back to the colony. The active ingredient found on the bait particle is then passed around from one ant to another and eventually reaches the queen. Applied properly, and using a fresh bait product, a broadcast application may give 80% to 90% control, rarely 100%. Baits containing indoxacarb are the fastest acting, giving maximum control in 3 to 7 days. Insect growth regulators, when applied late in the year, may take several months to provide maximum control, but may suppress ant colonies for a year or more. See also FAQ #824: "Which bait do I use?"

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