Fire ants are more than just pesky insects. They can be a serious hazard to humans and pets alike. Fire ants are aggressive and when they feel threatened, they inflict painful bites that can cause skin allergies and in rare cases, life-threatening reactions. The true danger of fire ants lies in their ability to form large mounds and colonies that can spread quickly through the local area, causing major damage to plants and wildlife. In this blog post, we will be delving into the threat of fire ants in the Gold Coast and NSW region and how our experts at Surekil Pest Control can help.
What Are Fire Ants & Where Did They Come From?
Fire ants are an invasive species of ant that originated from South America. They have spread to other parts of the world, including Australia, the US and Europe. Fire ants are reddish-brown in colour and can grow up to 6mm long. They are highly aggressive, will bite when disturbed and secrete a venom that can be painful and irritating to both humans and pets. Unlike other ant species, fire ants have the ability to quickly form large mounds and colonies, making them a serious threat to the environment.
How Do Fire Ants Spread?
Fire ants are incredibly adaptable and resilient creatures that can spread rapidly in the right conditions. They can be transported from one location to another via organic material such as soil, compost, mulch or potted plants. They can also travel on used equipment or even hitch a ride in luggage, clothing or shoes. As we enter the warmer months, fire ants are increasingly starting to spread throughout the Gold Coast and NSW region.
Recent Sightings In The Gold Coast Region
Although fire ants have been a prevalent feature in the Australian landscape for more than 10 years, they have only recently started to invade the wider Gold Coast, with recent sightings reported as far as Nerang. The ants’ ability to travel quickly and build underground colonies means that they can easily infest an area before we can even detect their presence.
How To Spot Fire Ants
Fire ants can be difficult to spot as they mainly live and move underground. They will, however, often trail up walls or around garden beds and form large mounds on the surface. These mounds are different from other ant mounds, with no visible entry or exit holes, making them easier to identify.
Professional Treatment For Fire Ants
If you suspect that your property has been infested by fire ants, our experts can help you take appropriate steps to eliminate these pests. At Surekil Pest Control, we use a range of professional treatment options to treat fire ant infestations. This includes an eco-friendly baiting system which targets the entire colony and destroys it from the source.
What You Can Do To Help
Fire ants are a serious threat and it is crucial that everyone in the local community works together to combat this pest. We need to be vigilant when it comes to preventing, detecting and treating fire ant infestations. Here’s what you can do:
- Be aware of the signs of fire ant infestations and keep an eye out for mounds in your yard or surrounding areas.
- Ensure that any materials being brought onto your property are free from fire ants and other pests.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions to suppliers or tradespeople about their pest control practices.
- If you suspect that you have a fire ant infestation, call our experts at Surekil PestControl immediately.
By taking these simple steps, you can help prevent the spread of fire ants and protect your home from further infestations.
Keep Your Property & Community Safe
Fire ants pose a significant threat to the Gold Coast and surrounding areas. Prevention and early detection are key when it comes to keeping your property and community safe. Our professional experts at Surekil Pest Control are equipped with the right skills, techniques and technology required to eradicate these fire ants safely and effectively. Contact us today to get an evaluation of your property and guidance on how to protect yourself and your loved ones against this unseen threat.
