Brown Tree Ant (Lasius brunneus)

A Nationally Notable 'A' species (nationally scarce) who's range is limted to the southern and central England, with just a single record close to where I found this specimen.

It has a close likeness to a couple of other Lasius species and at the time I think I assumed it was Lasius niger? With closer inspection the reddish/brown head is an ID giveaway.

The individual above was a particularly unusual find in that L. brunneus is rarely seen away from its host tree (usually a mature Oak, but others may also feature) or even on the tree itself, given that much of its activity takes place beneath the bark, within its host. The nest, with a single Queen, will be located deep within either the roots or the tree itself.

In the wild L. brunnius predominently feeds on the excreta of the aphids it tends (and occasionally that of other insects) found on the bark and leaves of the host tree. In captivity however, they adapt extremely well to feed on a variety of insects; fruit flies, crickets & mealworms. 

Mating flights occure in June through to early July when conditions are suitable.