Perth’s southern suburbs are facing a growing biosecurity threat. The African black sugar ant—an aggressive, invasive pest—has been confirmed in over a dozen new locations since first being spotted in Bibra Lake in March 2025. With sightings spreading across Spearwood, Coolbellup, and beyond, the need for swift and informed action has never been more urgent.
At Bug Busters, we’re closely monitoring the situation and are ready to help Perth homeowners and businesses identify, manage, and eliminate these destructive invaders before they take hold.
What Are African Black Sugar Ants?
Despite their plain appearance, African black sugar ants are far from harmless. These ants are:
- Shiny black or dark brown
- Approximately 3mm in length
- Odourless when crushed
- Often seen in large, uniform groups
Unlike many common household ants, these pests are highly invasive. Once established, they can dominate ecosystems, displace native ant species, and even cause damage to infrastructure.
Why Are They a Problem?
African black sugar ants pose significant risks to both the environment and built structures. Here’s why:
- Ecological disruption: They outcompete native ants and disrupt the natural balance.
- Structural damage: These ants are known to invade electrical boxes, chew plastic components, and damage wiring—leading to costly repairs.
- Rapid spread: Known as “notorious hitchhikers,” they can nest in cardboard, garden waste, building materials, and even household rubbish—making accidental spread easy.
At Bug Busters, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly these ants can take over if not handled early, which is why our expert ant control specialists in Perth are ready to respond quickly with proven treatments to stop infestations in their tracks.
Current Hotspots in Perth
Since 2020, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has confirmed infestations in:
- Maddington
- Welshpool
- Fremantle
- Wattleup
- Forrestfield
- Hazelmere
- Maida Vale
- Jandakot
- Balcatta
- Landsdale
- Kenwick
- Narrogin
Now, in 2025, Bibra Lake, Spearwood, and Coolbellup have joined this list—prompting heightened surveillance and treatment efforts.
What to Look For on Your Property
Early detection is key. Be on the lookout for:
- Unusually large numbers of identical ants
- Ants nesting in cardboard boxes, pot plants, rubbish piles, or construction materials
- Ant trails moving into walls, electrical boxes, or garden beds
If you notice any of the above, do not attempt to relocate materials—this could worsen the problem.
What Should You Do If You Spot Them?
- Don’t panic—but don’t wait. Fast action stops the spread.
- Do not disturb or move infested materials. These ants are easily transported to new locations.
- Report sightings directly to DPIRD via the MyPestGuide app or by calling (08) 9368 3080.
- Contact a licensed pest control provider like Bug Busters for professional treatment and containment.
How Bug Busters Can Help
We understand the urgency of dealing with highly invasive pests like the African black sugar ant. Our services include:
- On-site inspections to accurately identify the ant species
- Targeted treatment plans using DPIRD-recommended insecticides
- Advice and support to prevent re-infestation
- Safe removal of contaminated materials where appropriate
We’re based right here in Perth and have extensive experience with invasive ant management, including local biosecurity compliance and environmentally conscious treatments.
Stay Vigilant, Stay Protected
Perth’s biodiversity and infrastructure are at risk—but with community awareness and expert intervention, we can contain and eliminate the African black sugar ant before it becomes a widespread problem.
Think you’ve spotted them?
Contact Bug Busters today for fast, professional advice and pest control solutions.
📞 Call us or visit bugbusters.com.au to book an inspection.