Fire ant war takes to the air

BIOSECURITY Queensland's pest controllers will begin using aircraft to bait fire ants during the warmer months.

Member for Ipswich West, Wayne Wendt said the seasonal change provided perfect conditions for bait treatment as fire ants became more active in foraging for food.

He said annual aerial treatment was an important tool for the National Red Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program.

"Using a helicopter to conduct the majority of our treatment program is far less intrusive because we can treat a 50 hectare property aerially in 20 minutes, compared to covering the same area with quad bikes over two days."

The bait used to kill fire ants poses no threat to humans or animals, with the active ingredient similar to the type used on pet collars and in the eradication of mosquitos near waterways.

It is targeted specifically at breaking the reproductive cycle of the queen, killing off the nest naturally.

Biosecurity Queensland will notify local residents before treatment commences in their area.

Mr Wendt said aerial treatment would be conducted south and west of Brisbane, mostly in the Springfield and Ipswich region and parts of the Laidley and Fassifern Valleys, as well as the Redlands area.

For more information on aerial treatment or to report suspect ants call Biosecurity Queensland on 132 523 or visit www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790.htm

Fast Facts

•  Fire ants range in length from 2mm to 6mm
•  They are coppery-brown in colour, with a darker abdomen and are aggressive when disturbed
•  They can sting repeatedly and their painful bites will form blisters several hours later, which can take weeks to heal