A14 · Ant
Funnel Ant
Aphaenogaster pythia
Native lawn ant that builds small soil funnels and undermines turf. A major Queensland and NSW lawn pest.
- Size
- 5–6 mm
- Habitat
- Lawns, sports fields, sandy/loamy soil
- Activity
- Spring to autumn, mounds appear after rain
Overview
Funnel ants nest in extensive underground networks and push soil to the surface as small volcano-shaped mounds, especially after rain. They rarely sting and don't usually enter homes, but the tunnels collapse under foot traffic, leaving lawns spongy and uneven. Sand-dressing the mounds doesn't solve it — the colony is metres below the surface.
How to identify
- Small conical soil mounds (20–40 mm tall) scattered across the lawn
- Reddish-brown to tan ants, 5–6 mm
- Lawn feels spongy or 'sinks' when walked on
- Mounds reappear within days of being raked flat
Pro Tip
If the mounds come back within a week of raking, you've got an active colony — baiting beats sand-dressing.
General guidance only. Information on Home Pest Defence is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. For termites, venomous spider bites, wasp nests in walls, or protected wildlife, contact a licensed pest controller, your GP, or the relevant state wildlife authority. In emergencies call 000; for poisoning call 13 11 26.