Research by the University of Georgia shows the Joro spider isn’t the only invasive species taking over Georgia yards this summer. The Asian needle ant is considered a “medical pest,” which means the ant can harm the environment and the people living there. Dan Suiter is an Orkin Distinguished Professor at UGA.
"This particular ant ramps up because it stings, and so it's not just a nuisance.” According to Suiter. “So, when the pest control industry typically gets a call from somebody, it's a sugar ant that came in overnight. They're feeding on the dog food or whatever, and you know, you do something to get rid of the ants – or they're feeding on the coke can or whatever. They're a nuisance. So, that's one thing, but when it becomes a medical pest, it can be life threatening.”
He says the ant is a particular threat to those with allergies to certain other insects.
"You can avoid it. But if you have somebody in your family who has reacted adversely to a bee or yellowjacket sting in the past – maybe they carry a pen, they've been to a doctor who's diagnosed them with, you know, being susceptible to anaphylaxis – you should know what it looks like and avoid those areas."
Suiter said while they’re active now, peak season for the pests is July and August.
The Asian needle ants are not active in the wintertime.
