Why are fire ants interested in electricity?

They can probably detect it, but have no idea what it is. The electrical fields are more intense than what they would encounter in a human-free environment. So they are attracted to the power outlets and gnaw at the electric cords to try to figure out what is causing the strong signal. read more

Fire ants seem particularly fond of electricity, and are noted in the literature as causing problems with appliances or other electrical equipments, but cockroaches and bees and fruit flies seem to detect electric fields as well. read more

To keep fire ants out of electrical equipment, seal all sensitive electrical components, especially those that are not insulated. Examples are plastic housings containing contact points of switches, relays, and circuit breakers. read more

Most likely it is a combination of factors, including warmth, darkness, and shelter. read more