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Fire Ants on Young Oak Tree: No Tree Damage, Human Danger

6-month-old oak (5 ft): "zillion" tiny red/brown ants at roots, winged ones on trunk. Painful bite/sting. Asks if ants kill tree via roots.

Assessment

Ants don't harm tree. Some ants protect trees from leaf-feeders. Based on sting description → likely fire ants (fire ant guide with range map).

Fire Ant Facts

Won't damage tree
Dangerous to people (stings)
Check if in your area via map

Follow up if needed.

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