Formica rufa (Red Wood Ant)

Formica rufa, commonly known as the red wood ant, is a large, reddish-brown species found in European forests. They build complex underground and above-ground nests made of soil, twigs, and organic material. These ants are social insects, living in highly organized colonies that can contain thousands of workers, a queen, and brood. They are territorial and play an important role in their ecosystem by controlling pest populations and helping decompose organic matter. Red wood ants are also known for their aggressive defense behavior when threatened and their importance as indicator species for healthy forest habitats.