Get Involved

Argentine ants were first identified on the island in 2013, and by 2018 we believe they covered an area of up to 190 hectares. With our efforts over the past six years that area is now about 100 hectares. Argentine ants are one of the world’s most invasive species. They form super-colonies and out compete or predate many other species. The presence, and possible expansion of Argentine ants across Ahuahu could mean some of the ecological benefits hoped for after the rat and cat eradication may not occur.

Volunteers have been instrumental to our progress over the last six years. We have contained the spread of ants and are eradicating them steadily from parts of the island and protecting native habitat

Volunteers aid the eradication by working in groups to place sugar monitoring pottles to detect the ants. They also apply paste bait to control detected colonies. Volunteers must be fit and capable of walking up and down hills in warm conditions. They must also be able to get along with people well and be willing to follow instructions. Up to 16 people may be living in the accommodation quarters at a time.

Trips will run from Friday - Friday from late November 2024 to mid February 2025.

If you are interested in volunteering this summer, fill in the form below to express your interest.