What is Native to Africa, has exceptionally long legs, has an erratic walking style, and measures just 5mm in length yet poses a serious threat to the environment? The yellow crazy ant.
This invasive species is infamous for forming vast ‘super colonies,’ devastating natural ecosystems by preying on native wildlife, including birds, frogs, insects, lizards, and mammals. If left unchecked, they threaten biodiversity, agriculture, tourism, and local communities and is listed as one of the world's 100 worst invasive alien species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Since their discovery at Shute Harbour near Airlie Beach in 2019, the Whitsunday Yellow Crazy Ant Treatment Programme has been working tirelessly to contain their spread.
Recently, Queensland National Park Rangers collaborated with over 30 field staff from the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, Biosecurity Queensland, and Whitsunday Regional Council for a three-day intensive survey of yellow crazy ant infestations in Conway National Park. Their objective was to accurately map affected areas and refine the most effective control strategies.
The survey results showed significant progress in reducing ant populations, with only small numbers detected within Shute Harbour.
Complete eradication remains the ultimate goal, and sustained monitoring over the next five years will be crucial in confirming success.
Fast Fact
Crazy Ants may spray formic acid when disturbed.
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