Bull ants have a fearsome reputation, and deservedly so. They are large with long, straight, powerful jaws and a potent venom-loaded sting. They attack intruders of any size that come too close to their nest. Bull ants also have well-developed vision and will follow or even chase an intruder a good distance from the nest. Usually the sight of large aggressive ants streaming out of the nest is enough to prompt a hasty retreat. If not, the Bull ants deliver painful stings by gripping the intruder with their mandibles (jaws), curling their abdomen to reveal the sting and injecting the victim with venom. Often multiple stings are delivered.

Many species of bull ants have bright red or orange colours on the head or abdomen. They collect nectar and other plant juices, as well as animal prey, which are carried back to the nest. Nests are usually underground and often have hidden or small entrances. The nests can extend several meters below the ground.

There are about 90 species of bull ants in Australia with diverse behaviors and life cycles. Some of the smaller species are known as jumper ants after their habit of aggressively jumping toward intruders. Several species have no colony workers. Instead, a raiding queen invades the nest of another species, kills the resident queen and takes over the colony. Nine bull ant species have been recorded in Sydney, but there may be more as yet undiscovered.

Distribution:
Bull Ants are found in Sydney and through out Australia

Habitat:
Bull Ants are found in Urban areas, forests and woodland, Mainly found in areas were the soil is dry. Bull Ants can deliver a very painful sting and can be very aggressive, medical attention should be sought

Size:
Bull Ant workers 8-10 mm long.

To speak to one of our Qualified Pest Control Technicians about Bull ants or any of your pests Please call 0425 218 172