Fire ants
Information for Queensland public housing tenants.
These small red ants are extremely aggressive and should not be touched.
Fire ants have been found in a number of places in Queensland. Each property in an infested area must be treated to eradicate the fire ant. This may affect your property.
Does the fire ant sting?
Yes—they are a serious problem because their sting can cause a painful, burning and itching sensation (like the body is on fire) lasting for an hour.
What do fire ants look like?
Fire ants look like ordinary house or garden ants, they:
- are small, coppery-brown in colour on the head and body, with a darker abdomen
- come in a variety of sizes within 1 nest, ranging from 2mm to 6mm—this is a distinguishing feature of fire ants as other ants of the same species are generally the same size
- are aggressive, particularly near the nest
- can easily be confused with the common coastal brown ant, as well as some local native ants.
What do fire ant nests look like?
- Nests look like dome-shaped mounds, they do not have a clear hole for the ants to enter and exit.
- Mounds are not always easily noticed, but are usually found in open areas such as lawns, pastures, along roadsides and unused crop-land—they can also be found next to, or underneath timber, logs, rocks, pavers or bricks.
- They can be up to 40cm high.
What to do if you see fire ants on your property
- Do not touch them.
- Phone Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or report fire ants online. The person answering will ask you questions to work out the type of ant you have found and whether an immediate visit to your property is needed.
- Contact your nearest Housing Service Centre and notify us of the problem.
