Little Fire Ants Found in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park officials have detected the presence of Little Fire Ants (LFA) in the popular Steam Vents area and Mauna Ulu parking lot on Kīlauea—the first known populations of LFA in the park.

Intensive sampling is underway to determine if the ants are more widespread. Park scientists are working with partners to respond quickly to the threat and evaluate control options while ensuring visitor safety and protecting native ecosystems. No bites have been reported, and no ant-related closures are in effect.

LFA are an extremely noxious invasive species, which can have devastating impacts to native ecosystems and human health. Since 2014, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park has sought to prevent the introduction of LFA by monitoring equipment, construction material, and the vehicles that transport them, before they enter the park. This year, officials have intercepted the small, biting ants a dozen times.

“We are concerned for the health and safety of our staff and visitors, and the fragile Hawaiian ecosystems of the park,” said David Benitez, park ecologist. “LFA really depend on humans to move them around. We need everyone to ensure their vehicles and gear are free of ants before coming into the park,” he said.

For more information on LFA, how to control them and how to prevent spreading them, go online.