Red imported fire ants, also known as RIFA, are a dangerous and invasive pest that can have a significant impact on Australia’s way of life if they become established. To combat this issue, the National Fire Ant Eradication Program is in place to contain and eliminate the fire ant infestation. However, it is crucial for homeowners and business owners in South East Queensland to assist in the fire ant control efforts.
By law, everyone is required to report fire ants. If you believe you have found fire ants, please report it to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program within 24 hours. You can do this online at fireants.org.au or by calling 13 25 23.
When it comes to fire ant treatment options, there are three choices available for homeowners and businesses:
- Use a government accredited pest management company (fees apply).
- Request the National Fire Ant Program to handle the treatment, although it may take some time for them to visit due to their workload.
- Treat your own property, the Queensland government are able to supply you with Fire Ant Bait in small quantities.
For more information on fire ant treatment options, you can visit www.fireants.org.au
If you choose to utilize the services of Pest-Nett for fire ant problems, there are several advantages:
- Pest-Nett is government accredited in the safe and effective treatment of fire ants.
- We can send a technician to your property at short notice, minimizing the risk of getting bitten by leaving a fire ant nest in place.
- Pest-Nett will report the treatment on your behalf to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.
- Even if the ants present are not fire ants, AllPro can provide a suitable ant treatment to address the issue.
- They guarantee the elimination of all nests on your property, if they come back so will we.
- Pest-Nett specializes in ant control and has extensive experience in identifying and successfully treating various ant species including other invasive species such as Yellow Crazy Ants.
- Pest-Nett has performed product trials for chemical companies in the eradication of Fire Ants and Yellow Crazy Ants.
Living in a fire ant biosecurity zone means adhering to movement controls. Fire ants can easily be transported in soil and landscaping materials. Therefore, if you reside or operate a business within a fire ant biosecurity zone, it is essential to be aware of and follow the movement controls. This includes inspecting any material leaving your property that is likely to contain fire ants and treating them if necessary. These regulations apply to both homeowners and businesses. https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/land-management/health-pests-weeds-diseases/pests/fire-ants/movement-controls.The types of materials that need to be inspected include soil, sands, quarry material, mulch, hay, straw, potted plants, turf, compost, and rubbish.
A fire ant inspection should be conducted by:
– Individuals who suspect they have fire ants.
– Homeowners and builders carrying out building work. It is recommended to have an inspection before starting work and implementing a management plan for the project.
– Businesses that move material that could contain fire ants. An inspection and treatment schedule can be put in place to ensure compliance.
During a fire ant nest inspection, the entire property is inspected, and lure bait may be used to check harder-to-inspect areas. If fire ants are positively identified, a sample will be collected for genetic identification by the Queensland Government. It is crucial to inspect the entire property for fire ants, as multiple nests can be part of the same colony, and small nests can be challenging to spot. Successful eradication requires identifying and treating all nests, and following the method specified by the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.
The treatment process for fire ants involves direct nest injection of insecticide into all nests. A granular fire ant bait is also spread over the surrounding area to target any small nests that may be difficult to locate. A follow-up visit is conducted after 7 days to check for activity and confirm eradication. All necessary paperwork is completed by the pest control company and submitted to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.
Red imported fire ants are small ants ranging from 2-6 mm in length. They come in various sizes, which is unusual for ants. They have a shiny brown/red colour, with darker abdomens compared to their heads and bodies.
Identifying fire ant nests can be challenging when they are small, but as they grow, they have distinct features:
– Small dome-shaped mounds, reaching up to 40cm in height.
– They appear as piles of dirt with no obvious entry holes.
– Often found on open ground or next to objects on the ground, such as poles, rocks, or pavers.
– Ants will pour out of the nest when disturbed.
Fire ants can be dangerous, especially when accidentally disturbed. While a single fire ant sting may not be as painful as a bee sting, victims often experience multiple stings when they unintentionally come into contact with a nest. Some individuals and animals may have severe allergic reactions, leading to anaphylactic shock and potential death. If you suspect an allergic reaction after being stung, seek immediate medical attention. Children, pets, and livestock are particularly susceptible to fire ant stings.
Red imported fire ants have been found in various locations in Queensland, including the greater Brisbane area, Ipswich, Logan, Redlands, the Scenic Rim, the Lockyer Valley, and the Gold Coast.
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