Yellow Crazy Ants are a growing concern in Queensland and may soon threaten the SEQ region. The Invasive Species Council reports that these pests have been spotted on the Gold Coast for the first time!
These invasive insects have the potential to devastate local ecosystems and can harm species much larger than them. By breeding rapidly into ‘super-colonies’ Yellow Crazy Ants have washed over areas specifically in North Queensland, namely Cairns and also the NT.
As a Pest Control Technician, it is your responsibility to prevent the spread of invasive species. Learn how to identify and remove Yellow Crazy Ant colonies from a client’s home or property.
Harming the Natural Ecosystem
Yellow Crazy Ants spit formic acid to blind and kill their prey. Even if the animal escapes, it will likely suffer permanent damage. While the ants are smaller than other invasive species, they swarm in massive numbers and can overwhelm larger animals like frogs, lizards, birds and even small mammals – they are particularly dangerous to infants like bird chicks, turtle hatchlings and even mammal young.
The invasive ants may become a huge threat to the agriculture industry and residential areas. The sugar cane industry, in particular, is at risk of a Yellow Crazy Ant outbreak because they kill sugar-secreting scale insects and promote sooty mould growth that may stunt crop growth.
People with pets and young children are also warned about the severe damage these ants can inflict on them. The most common way to spot these ants is from prey or damage to plants at or around the property.
See If Your Customer Has Reported The Insect
Because of the ‘general biosecurity obligation (GBO), anyone who spots or believes they have Yellow Crazy Ants near their property is required to report the sighting to Biosecurity Queensland or other appropriate authorities.
It’s always good practice to ask the homeowner if they have reported the infestation to the correct government body. If you have been tasked with removing the pests, it is still important to ensure the governing body knows about the work you completed.
How To Handle The Pests
To eradicate Yellow Crazy Ants, the best methods are standard baiting and spraying systems used for the removal of all ant and termite colonies.
To treat Yellow Crazy Ant infestations, set up baits so foraging ants bring it back to the nest and spread it to the queen, which stops the colony’s ability to reproduce. Spraying is ideal for topical applications and protecting structures or important features like trees or plants.
The Queensland Government recommends Distance® Plus Ant Bait however, Yellow Crazy Ants may become resistant to the pesticide, so it’s best practice to combine different products to increase the success rate.
Prevention Tips
Once the Crazy Yellow Ant issue has been removed, it’s important to prevent new colonies from forming. After you’ve conducted a full pest removal, we advise you to tell your client the following information to ensure these invasive ants do not return.
- It is crucial to dispose of green waste and other rubbish that may entice these ants to nest on your property.
- Check all cargo and waste for signs of crazy yellow ant activity. These pests spread mostly because of human movement by being transported via construction, waste removal, soil movement, plant trading and other activities.
- Landowners and businesses should check their premises regularly for materials that may harbour new colonies.
Pest Control Equipment To Manage Yellow Crazy Ants
To combat the rise of Yellow Crazy Ants in Brisbane & Queensland, equip yourself with a spray unit you can rely on. An Austates spray unit can help protect Queensland from the spread of invasive species.
We have several pre-made spray units ready to go straight in your ute, plus a range of
portable sprayers to choose from. If you want something a bit more bespoke, we’ll also work closely with you to create the perfect custom spray unit. Make sure your pest control rig is prepared for the onslaught of work. ? 07 3272 7888