LITTLE FIRE ANTS INVADING HAWAII
Reported in “Hawaii Landscape” Magazine December/January Issue 2011/2012
Little Fire Ant (LFA), is an invasive stinging ant that is spreading
across the Hawaiian islands. The first infestation of LFA were
discovered on Hawaii’i island in 1999. LFA have hitchhiked on material from
infested areas and are now spreading across the Big Island.
Newly introduced and controllable colonies of LFA’s have been found
on Kaua’i and Maui.
LFA’s are small, slow-oving ants averaging 1/16″ in size. They are
long as a penny is thick. They nest in trees and in leaf litter on the
ground and do not form mounds.
Don’t confuse LFA’s with the tropical fire ant. The tropical fire ant
is a common stinging ant in Hawai’i. The tropical fire ant is
3-times the size of an LFA.
LFA”s sting! Most often people’s necks, arms, and upper torso.
They easily fall off disturbed branches and leaves, stinging those
who brush by. They deliver a powerful sting causing large, paintful
welts. Welts can last days, followed by an intense itching sensation.
Report Suspected LFA’s Immediately
Maui = Call 573-6472 Maui Invasive Species Committee