The world was captivated earlier this year by word that “Murder Hornets” were becoming established in North America – but there’s another invasive insect species that’s gotten a foothold a little closer to home.

Barry Hicks, an entomologist with the College of the North Atlantic in Carbonear, has been conducting research on the European fire ant, which he says has established colonies in a number of areas of the province.

Hicks’ research shows the ants came here directly from Britain long ago, as opposed to being spread from the mainland where their range is also expanding.

Populations are now established in St. John’s and in Conception Bay. The only other areas known to have populations of fire ants are two locations in Corner Brook, one around Glynmill Inn Pond and the other in the Country Road area.

Hicks says while not true “fire ants” they do have a stinger and can take the enjoyment out of spending time in your garden if you are unlucky enough to have a colony on your property.

He says another concern is competition with native ant populations.

They don’t necessarily fight off other ants, says Hicks but they reproduce so successfully and easily take over and exploit food sources, eliminating the native ants.