How to spot a fire ant nest and what to do next

Fire ants are predicted to devastate Logan’s wildlife and agriculture, and significantly reduce opportunities for recreational activities within the city.

But with so many ant species and an abundance of misinformation circulating the internet, it can be hard to identify a fire ant nest.

And even if you do spot one, what next?

The Invasive Species Council has made a step-by-step guide for Logan residents, teaching how to identify and approach fire ants.

This Christmas holidays, the advocacy group is calling on locals to keep a keen lookout for nests around the community.

“Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we all enjoy being outdoors in these beautiful places over the summer holidays. Sadly these incredible holiday spots are at risk of a fire ant invasion, so we’re asking Australian families to step up and join the fire ant fight,” the council’s advocacy manager Reece Pianta said.

“It’s a fun, easy way to keep the kids occupied – just take a picture of any suspicious ants and report it.

“Of course, fire ants are dangerous. Don’t put yourself, clothing or belongings in direct contact with ants or their nests.”

With the warmer weather comes rain and flooding, making the perfect conditions for fire ants to spread.

During flooding, the invasive pests come together to form a “raft” and float on the surface of the water.

Mr Pianta said to be on the lookout while out in the garden, at the park, taking a walk, or camping or at the beach.

How to identify a fire ant nest:

• Fire ants are 2-6mm, coppery brown and exhibit a swarming response when nests are disturbed.
• Colonies contain ants of different sizes.
• Nests often take the form of a mound of dirt without an obvious entry hole on top as foraging tunnels are the main nest access points. Nests can also be below ground and hard to detect.
• Fire ants prefer open areas with direct sunlight, disturbed soil, and nearby water, footpaths and utility boxes. Fire ants do not usually nest or forage inside human structures.

How to look, snap and report a suspected fire ant nest:

1. Keep your eyes peeled for suspicious ants or ant mounds when you’re outside. Don’t worry if you’re not sure what type of ant it is, every report is vital information for the eradication program.
2. Be mindful of your safety if you think you have found fire ants. Keep your distance and do not put yourself, clothing or belongings in direct contact with fire ants or their nests.
3. Take a photo or short video of the ants on your phone. Try to take a few close ups of the ants and their nest.
4. Report fire ants to: 13 25 23 or www.fireants.org.au