The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is urging continued public vigilance following the second confirmed discovery of red imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) in Bermuda, identified in late December 2025 at the Hamilton cargo dock.
Specialist assessment indicates the dock colony is likely to be the original founding colony, from which the smaller colony discovered in Hamilton Parish in November likely spread.
The discovery suggests the ants arrived through imported bulk cargo. As a measure of precaution, DENR is asking anyone who imported bulk cargo within the past six to twelve months, particularly from the southeastern United States, to inspect their properties
To date, 62 locations across Bermuda have been surveyed, with inspections ongoing.
Fire ants are aggressive and can sting when disturbed. Anyone who suspects a fire ant mound, sighting, or unusual ant sting is urged to report it immediately
Reports, including photographs where possible, should be emailed to fireants@gov.bm, along with the location or GPS coordinates.
Members of the public are reminded not to disturb suspected ant mounds.
Minister of Public Works and Environment, the Hon Jaché Adams, JP, MP, said, “Early detection is critical and so I strongly urge the public to report any possible sitings as it would give us the best chance to prevent the spreading of these ants”
