Invertebrates

Narrow-headed wood ant (Formica exsecta) - UK endangered

The narrow-headed wood ant is a medium-sized, red and dark brown ant with an active and aggressive nature. Its nests can be found on open heathland or moorland as well as scrub and forest clearings, woodland rides or roadside verges. In Scotland they are associated mainly with open areas in ancient Caledonian pine forests (Pinus scoticus). Their nests are small mounds formed of vegetation fragments, roughly 30 cm in diameter and in height, often built around a tussock or other supportive structure. Workers are thought to forage from low-growing shrubs and trees for aphid honeydew and also to capture or scavenge insects.

Threats and conservation

In Scotland, the main threat is the loss of natural and semi-natural habitats, e.g. Caledonian Pine Forest, and the intensive management of moorland for game birds and red deer. Forestry, succession and development are also significant factors posed against this species. The open state of nest sites should be maintained, and this may require grazing or cutting of encroaching scrub. For more information on wood ant ecology, habitat, distribution and conservation, see the web pages of :

Source:

Douglas, G. 2003. Formica exsecta Nylander, Narrow-headed Ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Invertebrate species dossier, Scottish Natural Heritage.