Wood ants are one of the most common species of ants found in North America. They are small to medium-sized ants that typically have brown or black bodies. Their diet consists mostly of other insects but they will also eat honeydew nectar and fruit. Wood ants typically nest in trees but they can also be found in buildings and other structures.
Wood ants are most active during the spring and summer months. During the spring they will swarm to mate and establish new colonies. Swarming usually occurs in the morning hours on warm days. After mating the female wood ant will return to her nest and begin laying eggs. The eggs will hatch into larvae which will then pupate into adults. The entire process from egg to adult can take anywhere from 6-8 weeks.
Once the larvae have pupated into adults they will begin to leave the nest in search of food. Wood ants will travel long distances in search of food and they are known to be aggressive predators. They will attack and kill other insects for food and they are also known to raid bee hives for honey. Wood ants will also eat small vertebrates such as lizards frogs and mice.
Wood ants are a nuisance to humans because of their aggressive nature and their love of honey. They will often enter homes and other buildings in search of food and they can become a nuisance if they establish a colony inside. Wood ants can also sting humans and their stings can be painful. If you have a wood ant problem the best course of action is to call a pest control professional.
Where do wood ants typically build their nests?
Wood ants typically build their nests in trees in stumps or on the ground under logs or rocks.
Do wood ants sting?
No wood ants do not sting.
What do wood ants eat?
Wood ants eat other insects as well as honeydew (a sugary substance secreted by aphids).
How many eggs does a wood ant queen lay in a year?
A wood ant queen can lay up to 3000 eggs in a year.
What is the average lifespan of a wood ant?
The average lifespan of a wood ant is 2-3 years.
How many different kinds of wood ants are there?
There are approximately 50 different kinds of wood ants.
What colors are wood ants?
Wood ants can be various colors including red black brown and yellow.
What is the average size of a wood ant?
The average size of a wood ant is 5-10 mm.
What is the biggest wood ant on record?
The biggest wood ant on record was 12 mm.
Are wood ants dangerous to humans?
No wood ants are not dangerous to humans.
What are wood ants used for?
Wood ants are sometimes used as food for reptiles and amphibians.
What do wood ants do?
Wood ants build their nests collect food and care for their young.
How do wood ants benefit humans?
Wood ants benefit humans by eating pests that damage crops.
How do wood ants communicate?
Wood ants communicate by touch smell and sight.
What is the scientific name for wood ants?
The scientific name for wood ants is Formica rufa.
