Rasberry Ant

CRAZY RASBERRY ANTS

The Rasberry crazy ant or tawny crazy ant, Nylanderia fulva, is relatively new for us and originally from South America. Like the longhorn crazy ant (Paratrechina longicornis), this species is called "crazy ant" because of the ants' quick, erratic movements. It is also called the "Rasberry crazy ant" in Texas after the exterminator Tom Rasberry, who noticed the ants were increasing in numbers in 2002.

In 2014, it was discovered that this ant produces and covers itself with formic acid as an antidote against the fire ant's venom. It is the first example of an insect being able to neutralize another insect's poison, an ability speculated to have evolved in South America while sharing the same native range. Colonies have multiple queens, which contributes to their survival.

Because the crazy ants wander in aimless movements instead of a straight trail, it may be difficult to locate a trail to treat. By placing both a sweet and protein food sources (jelly or honey / tuna or peanut butter), may cause them to trail to the food. Look under rocks, stumps, landscape timbers, firewood, and any rotting wood. Crazy Ants forage over long distances, so it is important to search diligently.

Use natural organic ant baits. Spinosad is one recommendation for an active ingredient, The workers take it back to the nest and feed the larvae. If you locate a nest, you can treat it with the Mound Drench. 
 

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