How can you recognize an ant?
Look for bent antennae and a narrow waist with one or two small nodes. Ant species vary greatly in size and color.
Why do some ants have wings?
Winged reproductive ants can emerge from established colonies. Wings do not automatically mean that an insect is a termite.
What do ants eat?
Food preferences vary by species and season. Ants may seek insects, sweet liquids or other foods; one observation cannot describe every ant colony.
Try one observation
Follow a visible trail with your eyes for one minute. Record whether ants travel in both directions, without blocking the trail or offering food.
Observe without handling or collecting. These clues are a starting point, not a confirmed identification.