Stinging Asian Ant Species Invades North America




The Animal House | WAMU 88.5 show

Summary: For years, the Argentine Ant has been known as the most aggressive and widespread invasive ant species in the U.S. But researchers at North Carolina State University have confirmed that the insect is challenged by a new and more ambitious rival for territory in urban areas: the Asian Needle Ant,which is harmful to people. Entomologist Eleanor Spicer Rice is primarily responsible for this stinging revelation and she shares her findings with us. Sam Litzinger also speaks with author Amy Stewart about her book, "Wicked Bugs: The Louse That Conquered Napoleon’s Army & Other Diabolical Insects.” Music: “Animal Dreams” by Bob James; “Flik’s Machine” (from “A Bug’s Life” original soundtrack) by Randy Newman