An invasive, stinging insect known as the Little Fire Ant has spread to the west side of the Big Island from the east side, state agricultural officials said today.  

The Little Fire Ant was detected earlier this month at two locations in Kailua-Kona, at a residence and a holding yard for a landscaping firm, according to the state Department of Agriculture. It is likely that there may be other unreported infested locations in West Hawaii, according to state entomologists.

The tiny ant, from South America, is considered among the world's worst invasive species, officials said. It is about 1/16th inch long and pale orange, and packs a painful stings that may cause large red welts as well as blindness in pets.

The ants can overrun a property and will also freely move into homes.  

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For more information http://www.hsblinks.com/1rg or the state's toll-free Pest Hotline at 643-7378.