The Wood Ant, or more specifically the Southern Wood Ant is red and black (like many other ants). However, it is its large size that makes in noticeable - up to 1cm in length. They live in woodland areas, which is where this one was found - on a path through the nature reserve at Studland. It preys on a variety of invertebrates, and is useful for controlling pests. They build large nests from pine needles and soil.