Lasius niger (Common Black Garden Ant)

Lasius niger (Common Black Garden Ant)
 
The Common Black Garden Ant (Lasius niger) is a small, slender, and highly active ant species that’s ideal for beginner ant keepers. Known for forming large colonies, this species is often discovered beneath paving slabs in gardens and parks, hence the common name, Garden Ant. 
 
Ideal for Beginners: Easy to care for and fascinating to observe
Widespread: Common across urban and rural areas throughout the UK and Europe
Fast recruitment: Efficient communication and teamwork help them quickly gather food and resources
Harmless & docile: Non-aggressive and safe to handle in contained environments
 
In the UK, Lasius niger is one of the most commonly seen ants, especially around sweet foods left outdoors. Their colonies can rapidly mobilise hundreds of workers to collect food or capture small prey, making them an excellent species for observing cooperative behaviour.
 
In the wild, these ants typically nest:
 
Under stones and paving slabs
In crevices of sunlit, south-facing walls
Around low-lying shrubs and plants
 
They are particularly successful in urban environments, adapting well to man-made structures and disturbed ground.
 
In captivity, Lasius niger colonies grow steadily, especially after reaching around 20 workers. While active throughout the year, they benefit from a hibernation period between December and March, which mirrors their natural cycle and supports long-term colony health.
 
Due to their docile nature, small size, and resilience, they remain one of the most popular choices for new ant keepers.
 
Important: It is illegal and strongly discouraged to release any non-native or captive ant species into the wild.