The World of Ants

jumping ant Ants are insects that live and work in large groups. Hundreds of ants may live together in one colony. Ants seem to be walking around without any plan. But each ant is doing its job. Each ant has a special job; some are building and repairing, some are getting food, some are guarding the nest, and some are taking care of the young. Hundreds of ants are able to cooperate and get all of the work of the colony done. All the ants in one colony are children of the queen ant.

Ant Life Cycle

Ants go through four stages in life.

1. The queen ant lays eggs.

2. The eggs hatch and larvae come out (Larvae are like caterpillars).

3. The larvae spin cocoons and become pupae.

4. The pupae hatch, and out come adult ants.

Ant Activities

Ants are found all over. There are many different types of ants. Find an ant colony to observe. Note: Some ants can bite. Do not touch or pick up the ants.

1. Look for ants walking around. Large black ants are the easiest to watch.

2. Follow an ant. What does it sem to be doing? Does it go back to the nest?

3. Find the nest. Watch the opening. Are there some ants who are guarding it?

4. What are the ants carrying in and out? Do the ants touch each other?

Children's Books About Ants

If You Were an Ant by Barbara Brenner. This unique book not only covers the basic facts of ant anatomy and life, but brings them dramatically alive.

cute red ant from Jo's Animation Gallery

If You Were an Ant by S. J. Calder. Narrated and illustrated from the ant's point of view, this book offers the fascinating opportunity to explore an ant's environment, physical attributes, diet, and way of life.

ants ants

Two Bad Ants by Chris Van Allsburg. When two ants desert their colony, they experience a dangerous adventure. The reader will experience firsthand their fall into a cup of coffee, a climb over huge sugar crystals, and many other exciting adventures.