Black Garden Ant
Scientific Name: Lasius niger
Order & Family: Hymenoptera, Formicidae
Size: 3mm to 5mm for workers; queens can reach 9mm.

Natural Habitat
Gardens, woodlands, pavements, and frequently found inside residential homes.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; feeds on nectar, seeds, and honeydew from aphids. They are scavengers that also eat other insects.
Behavior Patterns
Highly social insects living in colonies with a queen. They follow chemical pheromone trails to find food and are known for 'farming' aphids for their honeydew.
Risks & Benefits
They do not sting or transmit diseases, but can be a nuisance when infesting homes. Benefits include aerating soil and controlling smaller garden pests.
Identified on: 4/27/2026