The Asian Subterranean Termites (AST) swarming season in Fiji is usually from September- November every year. This is the time of the year when the AST flies away from its parent colonies to breed and start new colonies of their own. The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) advises Fijians residing in and around the two (2) affected districts (certain parts of Lautoka and Labasa) to take special precautions during this time of the year as there may be visibility of more AST fliers than usual.
The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) deems it necessary to caution members of the public with regards to AST issues. When travelling to and most importantly from Lautoka and Labasa to other areas – please check before leaving the affected areas that your personal belongings and vehicles (tyres, motor guards, storage trunks, grills, engine room and hard to see places) to make absolutely sure you are not giving any AST a free ride to your next destinations and even to your homes!
As we enter the swarming period (September-November), it is imperative to take special note of as much information pertaining to this pest and take necessary and proactive precautions where needed. In today’s article we will take a brief look at what is an AST Swarm, how to ascertain AST presence in affected host materials and some of the immediate steps to be taken once you have confirmed or suspect its existence .