Mound-building wood ant species
of Europe
A large reddish-brown ant with a black head and abdomen that looks very similar to Formica polyctena, which makes it difficult to identify. It can only be distinguished from Formica polyctena by the thicker hairs on its thorax (back). Hybridisation of these two species also occurs.
Easily recognizable by its distinct red coloration and golden hairs on its head and thorax. Found in deciduous and mixed forests, often in smaller nests than F. rufa. Less aggressive but still defends its nest with formic acid.
Builds large nests and forms super-colonies with several queens (polygynous). Favours warm, sunny forest edges. Often has no clear nest boundaries and creates extensive, interconnected networks of nest mounds. Compared to F. rufa, it has an almost completely hairless thorax.
Distinguished by its dark abdomen and reddish-brown thorax. Prefers open landscapes like meadows and forest edges. Builds broad, low nests, often exposed to direct sunlight.
A cold-adapted species found in boreal and mountainous forests. Forms large, polygynous colonies with multiple nests. Very similar to F. rufa, but prefers denser, shady woodlands.
A mountain and upland species, often found in cool, damp coniferous forests. Has dense golden hairs on the head and thorax. Builds large nests, often near logs or moss.