ATLANTA (BN24) — A wave of invasive Asian needle ants, described by experts as ‘killer’ ants due to their painful stings and allergy-inducing venom, is spreading rapidly across several U.S. states, prompting warnings from entomologists ahead of their anticipated summer peak.
The carnivorous insects, Brachyponera chinensis, are increasingly being blamed for unexpected stings and serious health effects, including at least three documented cases of anaphylactic shock. The ants, originally native to East Asia, now thrive along the East Coast, from Florida to Connecticut, and their populations are expected to surge through July and August.
“Imagine somebody inserting a needle directly into your flesh,” said Benoit Guénard, a professor of ecology and entomology at the University of Hong Kong, describing the sting’s severity. “It’s a very sharp, acute pain, but it’s quite local.”
The ants are difficult to detect due to their small size and inconspicuous behavior. Unlike fire ants, they do not leave pheromone trails, which makes locating and eradicating colonies a challenge. “Most ants are in-your-face invasive,” said Daniel Suiter, professor of urban entomology at the University of Georgia. “These remain hidden.”
Often found nesting in decaying logs, firewood, leaf litter, and even urban materials like bricks and railroad ties, Asian needle ants pose a threat in both wooded and residential areas. Encounters typically occur during gardening or yard work, when humans accidentally disturb their colonies.
“People are most often stung when they’re working in their garden,” said Theresa Dellinger, diagnostician at Virginia Tech’s insect identification lab. “Nobody likes to be putting in their bedding plants and then suddenly have unexpected pain.”
Health officials warn that while most individuals will experience localized pain, those with insect sting allergies may suffer more severe reactions. Anyone at risk is advised to carry an epinephrine auto-injector.
The ants were first discovered in the U.S. in 1932 in Georgia, but have only been recognized as a widespread pest since the early 2000s. Now, sightings are increasing annually, with peak activity approaching in the coming weeks. According to AntMaps, they are active across much of the southeastern and northeastern United States.
In addition to stinging humans, the ants hunt small prey such as flies, beetles, termites, and grasshoppers. Their spread is being monitored by researchers who stress the need for public awareness and improved pest management strategies.
With their elusive behavior and capacity to cause painful, medically significant stings, Asian needle ants are becoming a growing concern across the U.S., especially as summer approaches.
