Fire Ant Mind Control

Everyone says the government will be the first to develop mind control, (or that they already have) but it seems as if a species of fire ant (Solenopsis geminate) has beaten them to it. Entomologist Anastasia McKay noticed that animals tended to avoid Solenopsis geminate nests; this made her wonder, what causes the animals to stay away? After studying the chemical releases of the ants she found that they continuously release small amounts of epinephrine and norepinephrine; the chemicals that create a fight or flight response often known as fear in most animals’ brains, including ours. When the animal’s brain registers the chemicals they will veer away from their path, causing them to completely avoid the fire ants’ nest. “This form of natural protection is ingenious and unheard of.” McKay says. So, the next time you feel an unnatural fear you know that either the government has finally developed mind control, or you have come across a Solenopsis geminate nest. 7/7/13