Termites and fire ants usually spring to mind when you think of suburban pests that invade homes and gardens. A lesser known – but equally undesirable – species is the funnel ant. At just 5mm in length, it makes burrows so vast that it can cause extensive soil damage to your backyard.

Funnel ants are common all over Australia – they create funnel-shaped openings to their nests and their homes are often so cavernous that this results in the breakdown of the surrounding earth.

Although their sting is not dangerous, the most frustrating aspect of having a resident funnel ant colony is that they often undo the hard work and time spent on your well-manicured lawn.

These pests can eventually affect whole streets and neighbourhoods if not properly eradicated. Funnel ants favour lawns with good drainage and good soil, meaning that Sunshine Coast homes are ideal places for them to establish their colonies.