Black Garden Ant
Lasius niger
Description
Body length 3 - 5mm. Small and dark brown, almost black. When they swarm the females and males are winged, the females up to 9mm long and the males 3.5 - 4.5mm long.
Habitat
Often nests under rocks in dryer areas. Common in built-up areas. Can often be seen 'farming' aphids.
Status and distribution
Common and widespread in Britain. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.
Best time to see
Swarms July to August.