THEY bite, sting and they can spread salmonella – and a new generation of tropical ants could be coming to Hampshire.

Pest experts say the creepy crawly creatures from across the world – some of which were unknown until relatively recently - are invading Britain and establishing big colonies in several areas.

Pharoah and Argentine ants have been in the UK for decades but because the new ghost, crazy and big-headed ants are difficult to contain, it is feared the problem is likely to get worse.

Some bite and sting and they can carry a wide range of diseases including streptococcus, which causes infections.

David Cross, a pest control expert at Basis Prompt registration service, said: “Species like these were once contained to their own parts of the world, but they now seem to be on something of a world tour.

“The population of tropical ants in this country is certainly growing all the time and we’re now seeing many more problems with colonies of certain species than we have witnessed in the past.

“Most arrive here via container ships from different parts of the world either in food or perhaps soft furnishings.

“Others are brought in by people who travel abroad and come back with a queen in their luggage. And once they’re established, they become ever more prevalent.”