WHITSUNDAY Regional Council is urging residents to be vigilant when it comes to the voracious Yellow Crazy Ant.
There are infestations of Yellow Crazy Ants in the Whitsundays and they pose significant risk to the region’s liveability, biodiversity and tourism industry.
Council’s Natural Resources Team has re-commenced baiting for the invasive pest at known outbreaks within Shute Harbour, Funnel Bay, Mandalay and Woodwark.
Baiting occurs every three to four months while there are infestations.
Council also periodically monitors the population and extent of the infestations. There is no risk to native wildlife or pets from Yellow Crazy Ant baiting.
“We anticipate that Yellow Crazy Ants are entering our region via construction materials or machinery from infested areas, in Townsville,” Council’s Scott Hardy said.
“Industry professionals and residents living nearby new renovations, construction or landscaping, should be highly aware of how to identify Yellow Crazy Ants, by familiarising themselves with our fact sheet, to ensure outbreaks can be managed.”
Mr Hardy said Yellow Crazy Ants were a little bit smaller than a green ant.
“If you are having your house or property sprayed for other pests, ask the operator if they can also have a look for Yellow Crazy Ants,” he said.
If you think you have found a colony, please notify Council imme3diately by emailing Info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 972 753.
