UPDATE: A woman visiting the stunning wreath flowers in Pindar, Western Australia, made a surprising discovery this week—two gigantic nests that have left many puzzled. The nests, located along a 100-metre stretch of red dirt near this popular tourist attraction, are drawing attention from thousands of visitors flocking to see the rare wildflowers, which are currently at their peak.
Travelers from across Australia and beyond descend on Pindar, roughly 450 km north of Perth, each year to witness the breathtaking blooms that emerge briefly from the ground. However, this week, the excitement escalated when the woman stumbled upon the large structures. Curious, she shared images online, sparking widespread intrigue among fellow wildflower enthusiasts about the origins of the mounds.
In one of the photos, a thong is placed beside one of the nests for scale, demonstrating their impressive size. It didn’t take long for local experts to warn against touching the mounds, suggesting they might belong to either mulga or bull ants.
After analyzing the images, Dr. Brian Heterick from the Western Australian Museum confirmed that the nests were likely made by mulga ants (Polyrhachis macropus), which inhabit the area. He noted that bull ants typically prefer much wetter environments. “Mulga ants utilize fallen debris from mulga trees to create an outer lining that protects the nest during rainstorms,” Dr. Heterick explained. He further clarified that the nests are designed with raised perimeters, which help mitigate flooding.
Dr. Mark Wong from The University of Western Australia added that the architectural skills of these ants are remarkable, stating, “Whether such structures do indeed mitigate flooding deserves further attention and proper scientific study.”
As travelers continue to flock to Pindar, the wreath flowers have been blooming since September 10, with the Mullewa Visitor Centre reporting over 150 visitors per day eager to marvel at this natural phenomenon. The wildflowers typically bloom from August to November, offering a fleeting window for visitors, as they are short-lived perennials.
Those planning to visit are reminded not to pick or trample the flowers to preserve this unique sight. The local community is buzzing with excitement over the recent discovery alongside the wildflower blooms, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts and travelers alike.
For more insights and to plan your trip to these extraordinary flowers, visit the Mullewa Visitor Centre or follow updates on social media platforms.
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