Leaf Cutter Ants
Leaf Cutter Ants are also known as "cut ants" or "parasol ants". Leaf Cutter Ants originate mainly in the USA. They are found in eastern and south central Texas. They also can be found in parts of western Louisiana. Leaf Cutter Ants are not commonly found in subdivisions, but are considered an agricultural, rural pest. Leaf cutter ants are serious agricultural pests in Central and South America, causing millions of dollars in crop losses.
The foraging Leaf Cutter worker ant is reddish or rust-colored. They range from 1/12 to 1/2 inch in length. The winged reproductives of the Leaf Cutter Ants can be 1-1/4 inch longer. The Leaf Cutter Ant has a spiny body and long legs.