27 September 2023

DAF ups the ant(e) on electric ants

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The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is calling on families in Cairns to help get rid of painful and destructive electric ants.

Principal Project Officer of the National Electric Ant Eradication Program, Gary Morton said families were being asked to conduct a do-it-yourself electric ant hunt in their backyards.

“The Great Backyard Electric Ant Hunt is a simple and fun way for people of all ages to get involved in the search for electric ants,” Mr Morton said.

“Set aside some time between now and 5 September to check your yard for electric ants, collect samples of suspect ants, and return them by prepaid post to the program for analysis.”

He said there was no cost to take part, and the program would send everyone taking part a kit which included tips for safely hunting and collecting ants.

Mr Morton said that currently electric ants were found only in North Queensland.

“Electric ants are a significant environmental, health and agricultural pest so it is in everyone’s interest to lend a hand to eradicate them and stop their spread,” he said.

“Even if you can’t be involved, you can do simple things to reduce the risk of bringing electric ants onto your property.”

He said that as an example “if buying or swapping pot plants or cuttings, get them checked or self-quarantine them and, if you see any suspect ants or are being stung in your garden or pool, contact the program on 13 25 23”.

Mr Morton encouraged people to become involved by calling 13 25 23 or visiting daf.qld.gov.au/anthunt.

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