Thank you for your report! This is almost certainly our native Western thatching ant rather than Formica rufa, the European species, but thanks anyway. In terms of behavior the two species are similarly aggressive. The colony can be dug out (not easy as the ants tunnel deeply), and there are pesticide recommendations available, generally insecticides that are neurotoxins to rapidly immobilize the insects. Removal of this nest might best be handled by a licensed pest control company.

Tom Valente
April 27, 2026, 2:53 p.m.