The southern wood ant is the UK’s largest ant species, with workers reaching up to 10mm in length and queens growing even larger at 12mm. These ants are easily identifiable by their distinctive reddish-brown colour and a contrasting black head and abdomen.

Wood ants are known for their formidable large mandibles, which they use effectively for foraging and defence of their nests. When threatened, they have a unique defence mechanism that involves spraying formic acid at potential predators. This acid not only acts as a deterrent but also serves to communicate alarm signals to other members of their colony.

They live in large colonies, which can number in the thousands, and exhibit complex social interactions that help maintain the health and functionality of their community.