Della: “So while everyone else is enjoying Christmas Eve, I have been enjoying a novel experiment. In preparation for our family Christmas celebration on Boxing Day I figured that people might not notice the rampant weed growth in my garden if I strategically pulled out the very biggest of the weeds. After only the first barrow-load I discovered this humongous bull-ant nest where I am sure none existed last autumn (For reference, the ant in the picture is on a flag-iris leaf).
I immediately Googled bull-ant nest eradication, and was fascinated to read that ants will not cross a chalk line drawn on a pavement as it interferes with their pheromones.
Ever the scientist, Steve immediately went out to the verandah, grabbed the kids’ playground chalk and drew a firm line in the middle of a sugar-ant trail. Amazingly, the ants immediately baulked at the line, turning around and running back the other way. Sadly the effect only lasted about 3 minutes: When Steve drew a further line that prevented entry to their nest, they baulked initially and then pushed on through.
Now I know that drinking a glass of prosecco is more fun than watching ants on Christmas Eve, but believe me, you can do both! Meanwhile, if you have any worthwhile tips on how to kill my unwelcome monster ants, let me know!
Merry Christmas everyone.”
Just a BTW: A single application of Brunnings Wasp & Ant Dust containing 10g/kg Permethrin made them disappear overnight! (likewise Jumping Jacks).
I have had success in killing bullant nests by pouring diesel into them. They say that a borax concoction will be taken into the nest and will kill the Queen. I have forgotten the recipe. These bullants are savage, can sting multiple times and will actively chase you for some distance. They’re called ” inch men ” in Tasmania. Dangerous critters especially around children.
Normally I also pour fuel down the holes but this one is right under the roots of a nice almond tree so I need something else. I will try spraying insecticide down their holes then stomping them as I do for wasps. May need to do it multiple times – but they must be gone from the garden. They will eventually bite the grandchildren.