An invasive species of ant with a sting that can trigger a dangerous allergic reaction has been reported in more than 20 states, including Wisconsin.
A species native to the temperate regions of East Asia, the Asian needle ant was first discovered in the United States in 1932, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The insect may have spread to the U.S. on imported products, possibly in the root balls of trees.
The ants pose a few different risks to humans. They have a venomous bite that can cause anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, according to the Mayo Clinic. In 2024, at least three cases of life-threatening anaphylactic reactions were reported in Georgia, USA TODAY reported.
They’re also capable of infesting homes and harming the environment by choking out native ants and termites, according to the North Carolina State University Extension.
How much of a risk are Asian needle ants in Wisconsin?
Asian needle ants don’t yet pose a major risk to Wisconsin residents because they haven’t been widely seen in the state. They’re not typically aggressive around humans and tend to run away.
“They’re not aggressive, they don’t swarm the way fire ants do,” Andrew Johnston, an insect diagnostician at Purdue University’s entomology department, told USA TODAY. “Wear gloves and pay attention to what you’re grabbing.”
The pain from an Asian needle ant sting is strong at first, and can continue to come back. For some people, that cycle can for a few hours, and for others, it comes and goes for up to two days, according to USA TDOAY.
Thick gloves can help protect humans from stings.
Where have Asian needle ants been seen in Wisconsin?
The ants were spotted in the region between La Crosse and Madison, according to Antmaps.org. However, the states with the highest number of reports are North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama.
How can I identify an Asian needle ant nest?
Asian needle ants don’t live in a typical ant hill. There is no mound of dirt with a hole at the top. Instead, the insects build their nests in damp wood, including mulch or fallen trees.
The ants look similar to other species, but act slightly different. For instance, they don’t make forage trails, which is a line of ants.
How to get rid of Asian needle ants
There isn’t one specific recommended way to get rid of Asian needle ants, according to the North Carolina State Extension. There are protein-based pesticide baits that seem effective, but it’s not guaranteed to eliminate the entire ant colony.
“It is important to think in terms of management rather than eradication,” the Extension says.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: This invasive ant has spread to more than 20 states, including Wisconsin
Reporting by Blaise Mesa, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
