FIRE ANT CONTROL IN EAST TEXAS LAWNS & YARDS
Get Rid of Fire Ants and Reclaim Your Yard
Fire ants are more than annoying – they’re painful, aggressive, and they ruin your ability to
enjoy your yard.
Kids can’t play outside without risking stings. You can’t mow without getting attacked. They build
mounds everywhere and spread fast.
If you’ve tried the home remedies (boiling water, gasoline, grits – none of that works by the
way), you know fire ants need professional treatment.
James M
5 Star Google Review
I contacted Critter Gitters this morning to help me eradicate a huge wasp nest on the front of my house and around the eaves of my roof. They kindly came out a couple of hours later, killed all of the wasps, and sent me a picture of the nests. Now THAT’S service!!! Wouldn’t use anyone else!! Thanks Lane for your help and awesome service!
Thai Folta
5 Star Google Review
We have used Critter Gitters for years and wouldn’t think to go elsewhere. They are extremely detail oriented, down to the de-webbing of the whole exterior of our home. They are always extremely professional and punctual (which is a huge must for us). I couldn’t recommend a better company than Critter Gitters!
George Lee
5 Star Google Review
We have used Critter Gitters for years and wouldn’t think to go elsewhere. They are extremely detail oriented, down to the de-webbing of the whole exterior of our home. They are always extremely professional and punctual (which is a huge must for us). I couldn’t recommend a better company than Critter Gitters!
Joy Ione
5 Star Google Review
Joey Baker was highly recommended by the realtor who sold me my house. I saw what looked like termites, but Joey came right away and identified carpenter ants. I saved some dead ones in a zip lock bag for him to look at. He and his team treated the inside and outside of the house. It only took 2 treatments to get rid of the little critters. Don't do what I did. When they first started trailing out of the wall, I sprayed pesticide on them. Joey let me know to let them trail, otherwise they will go back in and make another colony.
Carol Dawson
5 Star Google Review
Critter Getters is always there when I need them!! They are prompt, competent and very reliable! You can certainly trust your staff at Critter Getters! They are the best!!
Wb Byrd
5 Star Google Review
Critter Gitters has provide great service for me for years. The local touch compares to no other. I’m grateful, and my children are as well, to be able to enjoy our backyard year round.
Greg Wassberg
5 Star Google Review
Whether one has bugs inside their home or outside, Critter Gitters offers the complete pest control services. Having mosquito issues outside, they have a service for that. Termite issues, they have a service for that too. Locally owned, and affordable. The technicians are also professional, safe, and understand that each homeowner has their own unique concerns.
Tyler Tabor
5 Star Google Review
We have been using Critter Gitters for years now and wouldn’t recommend anyone else! Joey is very professional yet personable and always has a smile on his face . He tries to make each service as easy as possible. If you’re looking for an amazing pest service experience…look no further!
READY TO GET STARTED?
Why Fire Ants Are Such a Problem Around Here
Fire ants love East Texas. Warm climate, plenty of moisture, soft soil – it’s perfect for them.
They spread by budding (part of the colony breaks off and forms a new colony) or by swarming.
Mounds usually number between 30-100 per acre. One colony can have 80,000 to 250,000 ants
per colony and multi queen colonies may number 200 to 700 per acre but contain fewer ants
than single queen colonies. After founding, a colony can mature( become capable of producing
swarmers) in 1 or 2 years. Mature colonies can produce as many as 4500 swarmers during a
year, with 6 to 8 mating flights occurring between spring and fall.
You can kill one mound today and have three more pop up next week if you’re not treating properly.
How Fire Ant Stings Work (And Why They Hurt So Much)
Fire ants don’t just bite – they inject venom through a stinger. They can sting multiple times.
The venom causes a burning sensation (hence “fire” ant), followed by painful, itchy pustules that last for days.
For most people, it’s just painful and annoying. But some people have severe allergic reactions – swelling, difficulty breathing, anaphylaxis. That’s a medical emergency.
Even without allergies, multiple stings (which happens when you disturb a mound) can make you sick – nausea, dizziness, chest pain.
Kids, elderly people, and pets are especially vulnerable.
Our Fire Ant Treatment Approach
Broadcast Treatment
We apply a non repellent insecticide granule that once watered binds to the soil. Because of this we can guarantee no new fire ant mounds for 1 year! Since it is a non repellent product, you will not see partial results and new mounds popping up a few feet away. This also protects against swarmers flying in and establishing new colonies.
Coverage Area
On our Premium and Elite Plans, fire ant treatment covers up to 20,000 square feet – that's a typical residential lot. Larger properties can be quoted separately.
What to Expect After Fire Ant Treatment
First Few Days
You’ll probably still see fire ants. Broadcast bait takes time to work – it’s not a contact killer. Workers have to find it, take it back, and feed the colony.
First Few Weeks
Existing mounds should collapse. New mounds that were just starting (too small to see) will pop up briefly as they mature, then die off from the broadcast treatment.
This is normal and expected.
Long Term
This is one of our most popular services. I became a believer when working for Disney. It is the
best fire ant treatment on the market and is guaranteed for 1 year!
Why You Can’t Eliminate Fire Ants Permanently
Unless every property in your neighborhood is treating for fire ants, you’ll always have reinvasion.
Fire ants spread through mating flights, colony budding, and flooding. They’re constantly moving into new territory.
The goal isn’t to eliminate every fire ant in East Texas – it’s to keep your yard protected so they don’t establish colonies on your property.
That takes consistent treatment.
Fire Ant Treatment and Your Pets
That said, keep pets inside during application and until the granules have been watered in or absorbed into the soil (usually a few hours).
We use products that are safe when applied properly and break down naturally in the environment.
Common Fire Ant Myths (That Don’t Work)
Boiling Water
Might kill some ants in that specific mound, but it doesn’t reach the whole colony (especially the queen, who’s usually deep underground). Mound pops back up in days.
Gasoline or Bleach
Terrible idea. Kills your grass, contaminates soil, and doesn’t eliminate the colony. Plus it’s illegal in most areas.
Grits or Instant Rice
Complete myth. Fire ants don’t eat solid food – they consume liquids. Grits just sit there.
Moving the Mound to Your Neighbor’s Yard
Seriously? Don’t do this. Also doesn’t work because you’re not moving the whole colony.
Club Soda
Another myth. Doesn’t harm fire ants at all.
Save yourself the wasted time and money. Professional treatment actually works.
Fire Ant Control Included in Elite Plans
The Elite plan includes broadcast fire ant treatment across your lawn (up to 20,000 sq ft) with
your quarterly service visits.
If you’re on the Essential or Premium Plan and have fire ant problems, we can add fire ant
treatment separately.
Preventing Fire Ants (As Much As Possible)
You can't prevent them entirely, but you can reduce attractants:
Keep your lawn mowed. Fire ants prefer areas with some vegetation but not thick grass.
Address moisture issues. They're attracted to water sources, especially during droughts.
Don't leave pet food outside. Reduces their food sources.
Ongoing professional treatment is the only real prevention.
Fire Ant Treatment Across Our Service Areas
Whether you’re in Crockett, Grapeland, Palestine, Huntsville, Conroe, or anywhere else we service, fire ants are a problem.
Rural properties with acreage see heavy pressure. Suburban neighborhoods have them too – they thrive in lawns, playgrounds, and parks.
We’ve been treating fire ants across East Texas since 2006. We know what works in different soil types and conditions.
When to Start Fire Ant Treatment
Fire ants are active year-round in East Texas, but they’re most active in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate.
You’ll see more mounds after rain. Colonies expand rapidly in spring.
Start treatment at the first sign of mounds. Better yet, start proactive treatment before they become a problem.
Get Fire Ant Control Now
Call (936) 546-7493 or send a message. We’ll assess your property, count mounds (if any), and get you set up with a treatment plan.
Most customers see major reduction in mounds within 3-4 weeks of the first treatment.
Let’s get your yard back so your family can actually use it without getting stung.
process
Let’s Get Started
Connect & Schedule
Your protection starts with a simple conversation.
Our friendly customer service team listens to your concerns, answers questions, and helps schedule an inspection or service visit at your convenience.
Inspection & Diagnosis
We Identify the Source
Our certified technicians perform a detailed inspection of your property — inside and out. We identify pest types, entry points, and contributing conditions to determine exactly what’s happening and why.
Customized Treatment
Science-Based Targeted Solution
Using proven Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, we design a treatment plan tailored to your home, pest type, and environment. We use precision applications — not overuse — to ensure safe, effective, and lasting results.
Guaranteed Results
Professional Service Guaranteed
Our trained specialists apply targeted treatments using the latest tools and environmentally responsible products. We treat interior and exterior zones, eliminate nests and harborage areas, and establish a protective barrier around your home.
Certified Local Expertise
Family-Focused Service
Guaranteed Results
WHY CHOOSE US
Why Homeowners Across East Texas Trust Critter Gitters
Science-Based Solutions, Never Guesswork
Science-Based Solutions, Never Guesswork
Integrity-First Service, Always
Integrity-First Service, Always
We lead with honesty and reliability. At Critter Gitters, integrity means fair pricing, clear communication, and doing the job right the first time—every time.
Training That Exceeds Industry Standards
Training That Exceeds Industry Standards
Our technicians undergo continuous training that goes beyond industry requirements, ensuring every service is performed with expert knowledge, precision, and the latest pest control techniques.
Certified Expertise You Can Trust
Certified Expertise You Can Trust
Our team is fully licensed and certified, bringing proven expertise to every job. You can trust Critter Gitters for safe, professional, and effective pest control backed by years of experience.
Guaranteed Results — Or We’ll Make It Right
Guaranteed Results — Or We’ll Make It Right
Your satisfaction is our promise. If the covered pests come back, so will we – 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
About Us
Critter Gitters
Built on Experience, and a Promise to Protect
Family-owned and operated since 2006, Critter Gitters Pest Management has proudly served East Texas with trusted, science-based pest control solutions that protect homes, families, and peace of mind. Founded by Joey Baker, our company was built on the belief that true pest control starts with understanding the problem — not just treating the symptoms.
Experience the Critter Gitters Difference
When you choose Critter Gitters, you’re choosing more than a pest control company — you’re partnering with certified professionals dedicated to protecting your home, health, and comfort with integrity and care.
Our Expertise = Your Peace of Mind.
Our process begins with inspection and diagnosis, not quick fixes. By combining scientific precision, advanced training, and eco-conscious practices, we deliver results that last — not treatments that repeat.
, ACE
Owner & Founder
Packages
Bundle and Save 10% when you add Mosquito Duo Defense or Lawn & Ornamental to any package.
Package Includes
Essential Plan
Essential
Proven protection for everyday peace of mind.
Elite Plan
Elite
Complete coverage. Ultimate peace of mind.
Ants (Argentine, Rover & Odorous House)
Roaches (Peridomestic species)
Spiders, Millipedes, Centipedes, Crickets, Earwigs, Silverfish, Ground Beetles, Pill Bugs, and other occasional invaders
Interior and exterior treatments every 3 months
Targeted crack, crevice, and perimeter applications
Web and wasp nest removal up to 15 ft
Guaranteed re-service between visits if pests return
Rodent monitoring and exterior bait stations
Wasp nest removal up to 30 ft
Fire Ant treatment up to 20,000 sq ft
Full Sentricon® Termite Monitoring System
Carpenter Ant treatment
Additional Services
Need more than standard pest control? Our advanced services deliver customized protection for complex infestations, long-term prevention, and total peace of mind.
- Termite Inspections / WDO Real Estate Reports
- Carpenter Ants
- Fire Ants
- German Roach Clean-out
- Fleas & Ticks
- Rodent Trapping & Exclusion
- Arbor Jet Tree Injections
- Scorpion Plan
- Termite Treatments (Termidor and Sentricon)
- Bed Bugs
- Invasive Bees
- Mosquitoes
- Wildlife Trapping & Exclusion
- Lawn & Ornamental
Locations
Serving Families and Businesses
Throughout East Texas
Anderson County
Anderson County
Leon County
Leon County
Walker County
Walker County
Trinity County
Trinity County
Henderson County
Henderson County
Madison County
Madison County
Montgomery County
Montgomery CountyFAQ’s
Common Questions from Our Customers
What pests are covered in your Essential Plan?
Our Essential Plan covers the most common household pests, including ants, spiders, roaches, silverfish, and occasional rodents. This plan is designed to provide year-round protection for your home and prevent infestations before they become a problem.
How is the Premium Plan different from the Essential Plan?
The Premium Plan offers comprehensive protection beyond the Essential Plan, including coverage for termites and carpenter ant control. It’s the total defense solution for your home and property.
Do you offer termite control or inspections?
Yes! We provide full termite control and inspection services. Our experts use advanced detection methods and safe, effective treatments to protect your home from termite damage and prevent future infestations.
Are your treatments safe for my family and pets?
Absolutely! All our treatments are family- and pet-safe. We use environmentally friendly products and methods that effectively eliminate pests while keeping your loved ones and pets safe.
Can I combine mosquito or lawn services with my pest plan?
Yes! You can easily add mosquito or lawn care services to any of our pest control plans. This lets you enjoy complete protection for your home and yard, all in one convenient package.
What areas do you serve?
We proudly serve Houston County and surrounding areas, providing reliable pest control services to both residential and commercial properties. If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, just contact us — we’re happy to help!
