 |
Honey Ant |
Worker Size: |
1/16" - 1/8" |
| Color: |
Reddish brown to blackish, shiny |
| Distribution: |
Throughout all of the U.S. except northern plains area. |
| Swarming: |
Early spring |
| Nests: |
Exposed soil containing clay in well-shaded situations. Rarely nest in houses. |
| Food: |
Live or dead insects, juices of well-ripened or decaying fruit, plant nectar, honeydew. Prefers sweets |
| Comments |
Colonies small. One of the first species to swarm in the spring. Nest entrance usually surrounded by coarse earthen pellets. After feeding, gaster often greatly distended and amber colored. They usually forage in houses for sweets. Retreat underground and usually not seen during summer months. |
