Ants

[Wild-Woman]

Just read an interesting article about the importance of ants. For instance, I had no idea that without red ants, the rare Large Alcon Blue butterfly(Maculinea) doesn't stand a chance. After the first three stages, the caterpillars are 'looked after' by the ants in their nest. This is done for about 2 years. Apparently they are fooled into thinking it's their own.Amazing stuff.So next time when in the garden, I shall be extra careful about disturbing a nest. Just goes to show that every beast in this world has a place and a reason. ww

[Mr Mag00]

Abssolutely right!! except cats which arent native (i know theres a thread) I worked on the re-introduction of the Large Blue for a couple of years, amazing ecology. It is however,one species of red ant in very particular habitat requirements. The Large Blue caterpillar eats ant larvae to survive!!

[nightshade]

http://www.gumtree.com/london/77/5363977.html ants are useful

[Wild-Woman]

See Nightshade-they're learning too!