A nasty Ant - "The Jack Jumper"

[guohua]

I have several nests of these little buggers that pop up from time to time on my block.  Generally get me while I'm burning off and raking.




I understand what Fire Ants are like and there are reports of infestations of them in Australia.  This nasty is a Fire Ant on steroids.  It attacks at blinding speed and, no bull, jumps better than a pole vaulter.  

When I get first get stung it's a little too late because the sting is followed by others if I'm not quick enough.  Generally get me through the socks above my shoes or boots and then on my legs and through my trousers if the pants are against the skin.  Sticky little creatures too because if I don't wear gloves and attempt to pick or wipe them off they are into the exposed fingers.  Hence I do a Nicky Lauda retreating, swatting and if necessary taking my footwear off and tearing at my belt to get my trousers off.  

insects.factsdiet.com/ant/jack-jumper-ant

The one pictured at top is the species that habits around here.  It isn't red.  Very hard to see and builds a nest camouflaged by ground litter and an opening.  If I rake over it's too late so generally I burn an area first and check the ground.  They tend to stay in the nest with a bit of smoke around however I have seen them jumping into the flames if I flick the nest to stir them up. 

I don't use pesticides on the ground to get rid of the next.  I mix up a 2 stroke - petrol (gasoline) and oil.  Lots of petrol.   While the nest is quiet I pour the mixture into the hole, and quite a bit too.  I let it sit for about 30 secs to gas up.  Next I make a safe trail of fuel from the hole for several metres and light the fuse.  Traditional 'WHOOMP"  then light a smoke to watch the payback for the pain.  

They get me at least once a year and I have to use copious 'stingose' over the bite marks which on me turn into welts.  Later days sees me scratching the intolerable itch.  I imagine the bites are similar to Fire Ants.  

i've declared war on them and whenever I see a nest I don't muck around.  I know if one of the dogs have been stung.  Rolling and rubbing their face and body parts into the ground.

More Australiana for yers.

Kind regards,

Bally:)

We pour gas on their nest or diesel.