Ants are perhaps one of the most ubiquitous creatures across North America, and for good reason. This continent alone hosts more than 1,000 species of ants, all fervently working toward some greater cause. Ranging in size from no bigger than the eye of a needle to big enough to extract a chunk of flesh, ants are a vital part of the world’s ecosystems. Although they are seen as common pests, ants do much to provide services as pest control themselves, as well as aerating soil and recycling nutrients so other species can thrive. Symbiotic relationships are a common theme in ant colonies, gaining assistance from various plants, animals, and even other species of ants. Check out a few of our most common ant species in North America.
1. Leafcutter ant
Where: southwestern desert areas
2. Carpenter ant
Where: all across North America
3. Harvester ant
Where: Western North America
4. Fire ant
Where: all across North America
5. Sugar ant
Where: warmer areas of North America
6. Myrmica
Where: cooler regions of North America
7. Trap-Jaw ant
Where: Gulf states to Arizona
8. Big Head ant
Where: warm regions of North America
This wraps up our list on the 8 common ant species in North America, for more on insects in North America, check out 5 Most Poisonous Insects of North America. Let us know which of these little guys are you favorite, in the comments below!
Featured Image from James Wainscoat/Unsplash
