Published 20 May 2026
Samford resident Roger has seen the impact fire ants can have — not just on people but to wildlife.
As a wildlife guide across Central and South America, Roger has witnessed their impact on wildlife, particularly ground-nesting birds.
'You'd find chicks dead in the nest with fire ants around them. It was pretty confronting,' Roger says.
But Roger's experience with fire ants started long before his time as a guide. Growing up in South Carolina, United States, he lived with fire ants all around him.
'When I was at university in the lowlands, they were everywhere. You couldn't walk in the grass in sandals. Even if you didn't step on a nest, they'd jump on you and start stinging,' recalls Roger.
He remembers being 'tore up by fire ants' more than once — a local term for stepping on a mound and getting swarmed.
'Before you know it, they're up to your knees and you've got hundreds of them stinging you. You end up with painful pustules all over your legs,' he says.
Fire ants made everyday life a challenge. Simple tasks like mowing the lawn or walking in the garden required extra precautions. 'You had to tuck your pants into your socks and be careful.'
Now Roger lives in Samford, Moreton Bay, on a 40-acre property he describes as his own wildlife sanctuary. His land is home to around 160 bird species, as well as wallabies, koalas, echidnas, and a variety of reptiles.
Protecting unique landscape drives his passion for supporting fire ant eradication efforts in Australia.
Roger believes Queenslanders are lucky fire ants aren't widespread here.
'You don't want them, full stop. They change how you live outdoors. Imagine not being able to walk barefoot on your lawn, have a picnic, or let the kids play in the yard. That's life with fire ants,' Roger says.
If you see suspect ants or nests, report online or call 132 ANT (13 22 68) within 24 hours.