Another Problem for Hawaii Volcanoes Park - Fire Ants

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park officials have reported that they have found Little Fire Ants (LFA), for the first time, in the popular Stream Vents area and Mauna Ulu parking lot

LFA is an extremely invasive and noxious species that can have devastating effects to people’s health and native ecosystems. The bite from these ants feel like a burning rash and can leave people itchy and sore.

David Benitez, a park ecologist said, “We are concerned for the health and safety of our staff and visitors, and the fragile Hawaiian ecosystems of the park.”

Since 2014, park officials have tried to prevent the presence of LFA in the park by monitoring equipment, construction material and vehicles that can transport them.

The Park has gone through so much as of late with the impacts of the eruptions and the collapse of the crater and now Little Fire Ants.

Let us all hope that the string of bad luck for the park ends soon.