Ants

Coastal brown ants (Pheidole megacephala) are a very successful invasive species and are considered as one of the hundred ‘World's Worst’ invaders.

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Habitat

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The coastal brown ant can be found nesting in disturbed soils, lawns, flowerbeds, under objects, such as bricks, cement slabs, or flower pots, around trees or water pipes, along the base of structures, and walkways, where displaced soil is usually observed from the action of ants digging below the surface. Homeowners are often find ‘dirt piles’ due to ants foraging in bathrooms, kitchens, around doors, and windows, as well as on exterior paved or brick walkways or driveways. Their attraction to food also causes annoyance within populated areas.

 

Treatment 

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The most effective treatment is to use granule baits, The ants collect the small particles and take them back to their numerous nests where complete control of the colony can be achieved. The entire area should be treated as infestations that are visible in lawns and garden beds can quickly invade other areas of the building. If the entire property is treated it may take several months before it is re-colonised and further baiting is needed.