Learn about what yellow crazy ants are, what they look like and how to stop the spread at Townsville City Council's information stall at The Palmetum this Saturday. (April 18)
The invasive ant species is a major pest across Northern Australia and is known for forming super colonies that push native species out of their natural habitats.
Deputy Mayor and Division 6 councillor Suzy Batkovic said it was important for all locals and new residents to learn about the invasive ants to reduce their spread across the local government area.
"Education goes hand in hand with eradication, so it's really important for residents to know how to spot an infestation and how to prevent spreading these invasive creatures across Townsville," Cr Batkovic said.
"Yellow crazy ants are detrimental to our environment, Council has been working with landowners to help eradicate local colonies, but we need continued efforts and support to help eradicate these pervasive creatures.
"If you're around, head on down to the information stall at The Palmetum this Saturday to see what these creepy crawlies look like and learn about how to stop the spread of Yellow Crazy Ants. It's really important people know how to check for these ants before moving items across our city."
During the past two years Council's specialist yellow crazy ants team has treated about 4800 hectares of land to battle their infestations through the Townsville Yellow Crazy Ant Management Program (TYCAMP).
The $12.8 million project is funded by the Australian Government through the Saving Native Species program and the Queensland Government, with delivery led by Council. The program has identified 49 infestations across 14 Townsville suburbs, including Douglas, Stuart and Alligator Creek.
Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto said the team would continue working tirelessly to put a stop to the colonies.
"It's critical we continue taking action to stop this introduced species in its tracks. We must stop them before they take over our natural environment or they decimate our local wildlife," Cr Dametto said.
"Unfortunately, The Palmetum isn't immune, and has also had an infestation of yellow crazy ants.
"Council teams have been working tirelessly to eradicate and prevent the spread of yellow crazy ants, but the war is far from over."
