A LEADING species advocacy group has refuted claims that fire ant baiting is linked to flying fox and parrot paralysis incidents reported throughout Ipswich.
Invasive Species Council Advocacy Manager Reece Pianta said such concerns were unfounded and warned that resistance to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program could have devastating consequences.
“The locations of flying fox and parrot paralysis incidents do not align with fire ant treatment zones,” Mr Pianta said.
He added that scientific studies had confirmed that fire ant treatments posed no risk to humans, pets or wildlife.
“Those refusing treatment on their properties are undermining the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, which relies on full coverage of targeted areas,” Mr Pianta said.
Fire ants are considered one of Australia’s most dangerous invasive species, threatening the environment, wildlife and agriculture. Mr Pianta stressed that the eradication program remained the most effective tool in preventing their spread.
“The battle against fire ants is a race against time, and we cannot allow misinformation to erode public confidence,” he said.
Research released last December estimated that failure to eradicate fire ants could lead to six fatalities annually.
The eradication program continues to roll out towards the Queensland coast.
