Over the years, hundreds of invasive pest species have made their way into Australia, posing a constant threat to agricultures as well as human beings. In addition to the fact that these pests originated from an exotic location, they also possess some unique characteristics that set them apart from native ones.
Fire ants work as a team
Originally from Brazil, fire ants were introduced to Australia in the year 1933 and are now found throughout the southern part of the country. Fire ants can stay afloat for days or even weeks by forming a raft on a flooded area. Thousands of fire ants can assemble together in about 100 seconds by locking legs and jaws to repel the water. Fire ants are common in Australian houses, but not that dangerous unless provoked. They bite only if someone gets in their way.
Stink bugs like to hang out in large groups
The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive species from Asia that arrived in our country in 1996 and can now be found in almost all the states. When a stink bug finds a suitable place to stay, it releases an aggregation pheromone that attracts other stink bugs to its location. This is why you may see (actually smell) these agricultural pests congregating on the sides of buildings. Severe infestation may force you to call in a pest exterminator in Northern Beaches.
Formosan termites love to eat
The Formosan termite is originally from China, but somehow the great migration might have forced them to reach the shores of Australia. These destructive termite species is nicknamed as super termite because they have the ability to chew through wood, flooring and wallpaper. An average colony can consume one foot of 2x4 wood in just 25 days.
Honeybees won't give up without a fight
Honeybees are killer bees that arrived in 1990 and now inhabit most of the states in Australia. Their venom can be very dangerous to human beings, and these stinging insects tend to attack in greater numbers. Even worse, honeybees have been known to chase people for more than a quarter of a mile. If somehow this happens to you, run in a zigzag pattern and try to find a shelter in an enclosed area as soon as possible. Do not try to jump in water because they will actually wait for you to resurface.
In case of any pest infestation, call professionals, as they have the experience and proper tools needed to handle such situtaions.