Learn about yellow crazy ants at free info session
Date published: 10 January 2025
Townsville residents can learn how to keep an eye out for yellow crazy ants at a free information session at Bunnings at Fairfield Waters this Saturday, 11 January 2025.
The invasive pests can be found in soil, vegetation, timber and rubbish from infested areas, and can be accidentally moved to new areas in freight pallets, packaging, timber products and landscaping supplies.
Council’s dedicated yellow crazy ants team will be available to answer questions and provide information about how to prevent their spread.
Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said yellow crazy ants were a serious issue in Townsville.
“Yellow crazy ants are a significant biosecurity concern in Australia, including here in Townsville. These ants are only about 4mm long, but they can kill native wildlife like birds, frogs and turtle hatchlings by spraying them with formic acid. If left unchecked, these animals can form super colonies which can drastically change the shape of farm and forest land,” Cr Greaney said.
“These animals are a real threat to our agriculture and our economy, which is why it’s important we do everything we can to stop the spread and eradicate the existing colonies.
“Managing yellow crazy ants is a serious priority for Council, which is why we have our team in the community, speaking with locals who can help prevent the spread of yellow crazy ants in Townsville.”
Division 10 councillor Brady Ellis said there were 10 known suburbs with yellow crazy ant infestations in the Townsville local government area, several of which fell in his division.
“We know there are infestations in Alligator Creek, Black River, Brookhill, Douglas, Julago, Mount Saint John, Nome, Oak Valley, Roseneath and Stuart. These are areas where we also see crops planted and keen gardeners and hobby builders working away, which can unfortunately align with the spread of yellow crazy ants,” Cr Ellis said.
“It’s also important to be aware of the behaviours of yellow crazy ants during the wet season, as they ‘raft’ in the water and travel to new locations. They can also hitchhike in soil, plants and wood.
“We need residents to keep an eye out while around their home and to report any sightings of yellow crazy ants to Council by calling 13 48 10 or using the Snap Send Solve app.”
Council has undertaken aerial treatments to release tens of thousands of kilograms of ant bait that is harmless to wildlife, pets, horses and livestock but helps kill yellow crazy ants.
This project is funded by the Australian Government’s Saving Native Species program and delivered by the Queensland Government and Townsville City Council.
Visit our Yellow Crazy Ants page for more information or head to Bunnings at Fairfield Waters from 9am to 1pm on Saturday 11 January 2025.
