Ants invade England

[BumbleB]

As seen on Sky news :

Colonies of lasius neglectus, known as the Asian super ant, were uncovered at the historic Hidcote Manor, near Chipping Camden, Gloucestershire.

It is thought to be the first time the species has been recorded in the UK, although the ants have been spotted in Germany, Hungary, France, Spain and Poland.

The species was first identified in Budapest 20 years ago and looks like a common black garden ant.


The species is highly dependent on aphid honeydew and are associated with a wide range of tree species.

Like American Fire Ants, they are also fatally drawn to electric currents, which make them produce a pheromone that attracts other ants.

Swarms of ants around electric cables can cause blackouts and can even be a fire risk.

English Heritage entomologist Brian Ridout said: "They look just the same as the common black garden ant, although there will be 10 to a hundred times as many of them."
Ants Invade England: Asian Super Ants Found At Hidcote Manor, Gloucestershire | World News | Sky News


Anyone seen them?

[BumbleB]

Like American Fire Ants, they are also fatally drawn to electric currents, which make them produce a pheromone that attracts other ants.

QUOTE]

I am not looking forward to coming across these !

[Two_Sheds]

More ants, lovely (ruddy things).
I uncovered a just-about-to-hatch nest of flying ants y'day, and scarpered back inside the house. I loathe flying ants, they really creep me out

[BumbleB]

I've seen a nest of red ants today while doing loads of weeding jobs ! I hate them all too !

[enrich100]

came back today and my patio is covered in flying ants, i've never seen so many and it too many to kill with a kettle of boiling water

just googled flying ants and The Guardian seem to be sexing the story up

"Mid-air sex to blame for plague of flying ants"