- Scientific name
- Myrmecia nigriceps
- Common name
- Black-headed bull ant
- Origin
- Australia
- Difficulty
- Expert level
- Worker ant size
- About 19–23 mm (some workers are much smaller)
- Typical colony size
- A few hundred worker ants
The black-headed bull ant is a large, sharp-eyed Australian bulldog ant with a powerful sting. It is for experienced ant keepers only. The species page has the full profile: Myrmecia nigriceps.
Safety first
The sting is powerful and painful and can be used repeatedly. One ant-keeping source warns of a severe allergic reaction in susceptible people. Do not keep this species if anyone in the household is allergic to insect stings, and never handle the ants. A secure, tested lid is essential: one ant-keeping source rates the escape risk as high.
Nest
An earth-type, underground-style nest. In nature the nest is a mound decorated with pebbles, soil and plant material. Keep the setup in a calm place, because workers react to movement.
Feeding
Adults take nectar and other sweet liquids. The larvae are carnivorous, so offer live insects as protein. See feeding ant colonies.
Activity
Foragers start about an hour before sunset and peak at dusk. They are visual hunters, so avoid sudden movements near the setup.
Climate and winter rest
Information is limited. One ant-keeping source recommends a winter rest of two to three months and advises avoiding temperatures above 30 °C. As only one source gives guidance, no temperature or humidity figures are published.
What to expect
Colonies are small, a few hundred workers. The queen is larger than the workers, at about 24–26 mm in one source.
Frequently asked questions
Is it legal to keep?
We do not give legal advice. This is native Australian wildlife and rules differ between countries. Please ask ANTELYX what applies to your destination.
Is it a good first ant?
No. Ant-keeping sources rate it for experts.
Can several workers sting at once?
Yes. The workers defend the nest aggressively, which is why containment matters.
See also bulldog ant care.
Interested in Myrmecia nigriceps?
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