Fire ants are no longer just a Brisbane problem. These aggressive invasive pests are now spreading north of Brisbane, and Sunshine Coast residents need to be vigilant.
The Threat Is Real and Growing
Red imported fire ants (RIFA) have been steadily expanding their territory across Southeast Queensland. What was once contained primarily to Brisbane and surrounding areas is now creeping further north, putting Sunshine Coast properties, families, and pets at risk.
(Fire ant bites)
These aren’t your ordinary backyard ants. Fire ants are highly aggressive, and their painful stings can cause serious allergic reactions in some people. They build large mounds that can damage lawns, gardens, and even electrical equipment.
How to Identify Fire Ants
Fire ants are reddish-brown to reddish-black in colour and range from 2-6mm in length. But it’s their behaviour and nests that really set them apart:
- Aggressive mounds: Fire ant nests appear as dome-shaped mounds of soft soil, often in open, sunny areas. They can be up to 40cm high but are often smaller and harder to spot.
- Multiple queens: Unlike many ant species, fire ant colonies can have multiple queens, allowing them to spread rapidly.
- Painful sting: If disturbed, fire ants swarm aggressively and deliver painful, burning stings. They can sting multiple times.
- Swarming behaviour: When you disturb a mound, hundreds of ants will pour out and attack within seconds.
Why You Should Report Fire Ants Immediately
Fire ants are a biosecurity threat. Early detection and reporting can help contain their spread and protect your community. If left unchecked, fire ants can:
- Make outdoor spaces unsafe for children and pets
- Impact local agriculture and farming
- Damage electrical equipment and infrastructure
- Reduce property values in infested areas
What to Do If You Spot Fire Ants
- Don’t disturb the nest. Fire ants are aggressive defenders, and disturbing them will only result in painful stings.
- Take photos if safe to do so. Visual evidence helps with identification.
- Call Flick immediately on 1300 270 019. Our trained technicians can safely identify and treat fire ant infestations. We use approved treatment methods that are safe for your family and pets.
- Report to Biosecurity Queensland. You can also report suspected fire ants to the National Red Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program by calling 13 25 23.
Why Choose Flick for Fire Ant Treatment
At Flick, we understand the serious threat fire ants pose to Sunshine Coast families. Our local technicians are trained to:
- Accurately identify fire ants versus native ant species
- Safely treat infestations using approved methods
- Provide ongoing monitoring to prevent reinfestation
- Work quickly to protect your family and property
We’re part of your local community, and we’re committed to keeping the Sunshine Coast safe from invasive pests.
Don’t Wait – Act Now
Fire ants spread quickly. A single colony can produce hundreds of thousands of ants, and new queens can fly up to 5km to establish new colonies. The sooner an infestation is identified and treated, the better the chance of containing it.
If you spot a suspicious ant mound or experience painful, burning stings from ants on your Sunshine Coast property, don’t take chances.
Call Flick on 1300 270 019 today.
Our local Sunshine Coast team is ready to respond quickly, identify the threat, and protect your home and family from fire ants.
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