Local families are this school holidays being urged to help stop one of Australia’s most destructive pests from spreading further across the city.
The Invasive Species Council is calling on the community to look, snap and report any suspected fire ant nests as part of a major summer awareness push.
Logan is one of the regions most heavily affected by fire ants, and Advocacy Director Reece Pianta said locals have a critical role to play in protecting suburbs, parks and bushland over the busy holiday period.
“It’s a fun, easy way to keep the kids occupied – just take a picture of any suspicious ants and report it,” Mr Pianta said.
Fire ants pose a significant threat to households, pets, agriculture and biodiversity. Their stings can be deadly, and Mr Pianta urged residents to be cautious while keeping an eye out.
“Of course, fire ants are dangerous. Don’t put yourself, clothing or belongings in direct contact with ants or their nests.
“If your kids are curious about an ant nest they’ve seen, make sure you go with them and ensure they stay at arm’s length when taking a photo.”
As temperatures rise and recent wet weather creates favourable conditions, fire ant activity increases – particularly in the morning and evening, according to Mr Pantia.
“While out in the garden, at the park, taking a walk, camping or at the beach, we should all be on the lookout.”
How to identify a fire ant nest:
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Ants are 2–6mm long, coppery brown, and swarm aggressively when disturbed.
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Colonies contain ants of different sizes.
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Nests appear as mounds with no obvious entry hole; some are below ground and harder to spot.
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They favour sunny open spaces, disturbed soil, footpaths, utility boxes and areas near water.
Look, snap and report:
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Keep your distance from any suspicious ants or mounds.
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Take clear photos or a short video.
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Report sightings to 13 25 23 or www.fireants.org.au
