The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) and Local Land Services have led the response to yellow crazy ants in the Lismore region since the ants were first discovered in May 2018. The infestation is restricted to two sites; the Lismore CBD and Terania Creek North of Lismore.
Yellow crazy ants are highly invasive. They can build super colonies and devastate local flora and fauna, as well as affecting both agricultural production and the horticultural industry.
Although not a direct threat to humans, yellow crazy ants are classified as a ‘prohibited matter event’ under the Biosecurity Act 2015 because they are a serious environmental pest that poses a risk to our economy, environment and communities.
The provisions of the Act include a duty to notify NSW DPI if you become aware of, or suspect the presence of, yellow crazy ants.
A surveillance blitz will kick off across the Lismore Local Government Area this weekend, with over 600 random inspections by DPI staff to determine the extent of yellow crazy ants.
The DPI has been using dog surveillance as part of its control efforts, which has provided staff with very specific information about the nest locations in the Lismore CBD and Terania Creek areas.
Yellow crazy ant information is available online: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/insect-pests/yellow-crazy-ant.
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