Coyote Peterson, a wildlife educator, intentionally gets stung by fire ants to educate viewers on how to handle such a situation. He explains that fire ants are a major agricultural and urban pest in the southeastern US, and their venom can cause intense pain and itching. After being stung over 450 times, Coyote shows how to treat the stings, including washing the affected area with water and using a product called Fire Out to bring relief. He also discusses the three stages of ant stings: the stings themselves, the immediate aftermath, and the 24-hour effect. Coyote's experience shows that Fire Out can provide immediate relief from the pain and itching caused by fire ant stings, and he recommends it as a useful product in case of such an emergency.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The imported fire ant was accidentally introduced to the United States from South America in the early 1930s.
2. Fire ants are a major agricultural and urban pest in the southeastern United States.
3. Thousands of people fall victim to the agonizing venomous stings of fire ants every year.
4. Fire ants establish strongholds that are virtually impossible to eradicate.
5. Fire ants have elaborate tunnel systems beneath the surface of their mounds.
6. Fire ants have a complex social hierarchy that includes workers, soldiers, and a queen.
7. Fire ants are highly aggressive and will attack in large numbers when threatened.
8. Fire ants inject a neurotoxic venom that causes intense pain and itching.
9. Fire ants can cause anaphylactic shock in some individuals.
10. The venom of fire ants can cause redness, swelling, and blistering.
11. Applying cool water to the affected area can help alleviate the pain and itching.
12. The product Fire Out can provide immediate relief from fire ant stings.
13. There are three stages to ant stings: the sting itself, the immediate aftermath, and the 24-hour effect.
14. Fire ant stings can cause long-lasting pain and discomfort.
15. Fire ant venom is composed of 95% insoluble alkaloids that the body forces to the skin's surface in the form of pustules.