Black Garden Ant
Lasius niger |
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Black Garden Ant |
The Black Garden Ant is a common sight in the garden. There is often a trail of them across the patio as they rush industriously back and forth.
In this photo, you can see the ant "farming" some aphids (Blackfly). The aphids excrete honeydew which the ants love, so the ant protects them from predators. Of course, the aphids are bad for the plant they are on.
The good news about ants in the garden is that Green Woodpeckers love to eat them! The Green Woodpeckers are often on the lawn in search of their favourite meal.
Click on any of the photographs on this site to see a larger image.