A new alert has been issued to residents and businesses in Hamilton after a fire ant colony was discovered in the docks area. The Bermuda Department of Environment and Natural Resources confirmed the find early Thursday morning and urged authorities to take swift action to prevent the invasive species from spreading.

Fire ants are known for their painful stings and potential to damage structures, livestock and native wildlife. The department has released a detailed guide on how to identify the insects and what steps to take if a nest is spotted. Workers are also being dispatched to inspect the surrounding area for additional colonies.

Local property owners are advised to keep their premises clear of debris and to secure any food sources that could attract ants. The Department has set up a hotline and an online reporting portal to allow residents to submit photographs or reports of suspected nests.

While the discovery is concerning, officials say the prompt response and public awareness campaign should keep the threat contained. In the coming weeks, the Department will conduct follow‑up inspections and may deploy targeted control measures if necessary.

Residents of Hamilton and the surrounding areas are encouraged to stay informed and cooperate with local environmental agencies to protect Bermuda’s fragile ecosystems.