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Myrmica rubra
They are mainly red in colour, with slightly darker pigmentation on the head. The ants live under stones, fallen trees, and in soil. They are aggressive ants, often attacking rather than running away, and are equipped with a stinger. They are very common in Europe and live in meadows and gardens. They live on a diet of honeydew excreted by aphids, and, being very aggressive like to eat many types of insect and other invertebrates. They will attack any creature that disturbs their nest, but are not as aggressive as the red imported fire ant.
Mainly originating from central Europe, this species is currently invading Japan and North America.
Dare to step on one of their nests while innocently making pictures of flowers and butterflies. You will in no time feel them! Ants in the last two pics I am not sure if they are the same species workers instead of soldiers or vice versa (?)
Spotted on Jul 15, 2011
Submitted on Jul 31, 2011
2 Comments
Thanks, Elsa! I was the crazy person sitting on the corner of a path focusing my camera on tiny ants :-)
Love this picture Marta!