Red Ant

Myrmica rubra

Description

Body length 4 - 5mm. Small and reddish. Myrmica species have two segments in the waist and spines on the rear of the thorax. There are several similar species but the gentle angle at the base of the antennae suggest rubra.

Habitat

Damp woodland edge, hedgerows and riversides. They feed on honeydew from aphids and scale insects.

Status and distribution

Common but local throughout Britain. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to October.