Red Wood Ant

Natural Habitat

Coniferous and mixed forests across Europe and parts of Asia, typically building large, mounded nests of pine needles.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; feeds on honeydew secreted by aphids, but also hunts insects and other invertebrates.

Behavior Patterns

Highly social ants that live in large colonies. They are known for building elaborate hills and can fire formic acid from their abdomens to repel threats.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits include pest control in forests and soil aeration. While they do not have a sting, they can bite and spray formic acid, which may cause mild irritation to human skin.

Identified on: 2/17/2026