Red Harvester Ants

Description:

Worker ants are typically red, sometimes brownish. They are 1/4 to 1/2 inches in length. They can both bite and sting with the sting possibly being severe in some people.

Habitat:

Dry areas. These ants will clear all vegetation from around the nest for about a meter. They feed on seeds, but will also collect insects.

Notes:

I was stung by one of these ants a few years ago while trying to photograph them. While the pain subsided within a couple of minutes it was severe while it lasted. Much worse, in my estimation, than a honeybee sting. My arm was numbed from the elbow down to the hand. In some people the reaction can be severe. Apparently the reaction spreads along the lymph system. Interestingly, these are the ants often sold along with children's ant farms.