They're here

Fire ants invade Va. public parks


VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (AP) -- Fire ants have invaded at least eight public parks in the South Hampton Roads area.

State officials say the ants are being transported from southern states in uninspected and untreated shipments of plants, soil and mulch, either illegally or unintentionally.

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services says most of the affected parks are in Virginia Beach.

Greenbrier Sports Park in Chesapeake, and Buckner Farms, City View, Hillcrest Farms, Mount Trashmore, Newlight, Pine Ridge and Rosemont Forest parks in Virginia Beach have been treated with insecticide in an attempt to eliminate the pests.

Fire ants are aggressive, swarming insects known for their venomous attacks on animals and humans.