The Lord Howe Island Board will resume targeted work to eradicate the African big-headed ant (ABHA – Pheidole megacephala) from Monday 3 November 2025. 

The environment team will be working systematically across the Settlement and surrounding paddocks during November and early December, with further treatment planned for early 2026. 

• Surveys: Non-toxic baits (such as dog food) will be used to detect any ABHA activity.
• Treatment: Where ants are confirmed, Amdro ant bait will be applied. All pesticide use is carried out in line with the Notification of pesticide use October 2025 plan.

• Follow-up: At least three rounds of treatment are required at affected sites over summer, depending on conditions. 

  

  The damaging impacts of ABHA

• Listed in the top 100 worst invasive pests in the world, ABHA are a major threat to biodiversity and ecosystems. They can readily out-compete and displace native invertebrates, especially other ant species. 

• The species is well-established on mainland Australia and will remain a threat to the Island for the foreseeable future, especially through the importation of plants, timber and building materials. Rainforest ecosystems are most at risk. ( CSIRO).

  Please report any suspected sightings of ABHA, especially: 

• Nest mounds near buildings or along roadsides

• Ant trails around bins, logs, tree bases or concrete areas

  If you think you’ve seen ABHA, take a photo or collect a sealed sample, and contact the LHIB Biosecurity team: [email protected]or 02 6563 2066