Episode

Why are tiny African ants being smuggled abroad?

Podcast: DW AfricaLink
Published: Aug 26, 2026
Duration seconds: 1517
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Summary

Wildlife trafficking is usually associated with elephants and rhinos. But in East Africa, a much smaller creature is becoming part of the illegal trade: the Giant African Harvester Ant. A single queen can fetch €200. But these ants still play a vital role in their ecosystems. Lucy Riley speaks with ant expert Dino Martins and DW's Andrew Wasike in Nairobi about the growing trade in African ants.