Thursday, September 21, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Did you know? With Mayor Julie Hall

Yellow Crazy Ants have been detected across 81 ha in the Whitsunday Region.

These ants have a wide range of harmful impacts on our environment and in large numbers can disrupt entire ecosystems.

Whilst they are not dangerous to humans, they can seriously affect our liveability; invading homes, biting pets or people whilst we sleep.

YCA create what we call super colonies to take over an infested area, decimating native fauna and disrupting the reproductive processes of flowering plants.

YCA can be recognised by their yellow colouring as well as their 'crazy' and erratic movements.

They are often transported by vehicle movement or via construction materials and green waste.

To help reduce the current infestation levels, Council encourages residents to check with your regular pest controller when spraying your property if they inspect for YCA.

Furthermore, for all new builds and constructions, check if the material has come from Townsville or another YCA infestation area.

If so, request that the wood is treated before being used.  

For all sightings, we urge residents to notify Council immediately on 1300 972 753 or via email at info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au and to refrain from moving materials or vehicles in the location until an WRC can inspect and treat the area.

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