Tiny but deadly: Asian needle ants now found in Alabama, experts warn of stings
Asian needle ants have a sting that's not only painful but can trigger serious allergic reactions, even deadly ones, in rare cases.
Initially from East Asia, they were detected in the U.S. in 1932. Since then, they've taken hold in the Southeast and are creeping into new regions.
Experts warn the ants pose ecological and health risks as they spread.
Don't let their size fool you. These ants pack a serious punch.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, the most alarming thing about Asian needle ants is their sting. It's not just painful, in some cases, it can trigger life-threatening allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Officials urge caution, especially for people sensitive to bee or ant stings, as they may be more likely to have severe responses.
Asian needle ants aren't just showing up in cities, they're invading quiet, undisturbed forests too. They like to nest in logs, leaf litter, under stones and inside piles of debris. But they're just as comfortable near homes and businesses where they hide under mulch, pavers, and landscape timbers.
Experts say they are highly adaptable and turning up in more places than ever as Asian needle ants hit their peak in the summer months, especially July and August.
Researchers say Asian needle ants are more than just a nuisance, they're changing ecosystems.
In areas where they take over, native ants that help spread plant seeds disappear. Without those native ants, many forest plants struggle to reproduce, which could lead to long-term damage to forest health and biodiversity.
According to iNaturalist, these are the states where confirmed sightings of Asian needle ants have been reported:
Alabama
Arkansas
Georgia
Indiana
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Mississippi
New York
North Carolina
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Virginia
West Virginia
Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Today. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Asian needle ants confirmed in Alabama, sting can cause allergic shock
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