Round And Round

[Donde]

I came across these ants swarming on an outdoor step. They were racing round and round in a clockwise direction. The circular pattern remained constant for the several minutes I continued to watch. What curious behavior.

 

[Jeff1548 48]

Must be some sort of dance ..?....

 

[jcdeboever]

that's called an ant mill. they are basically following the leader and committing suicide. They will eventually die from exhaustion.

 

[Ron Evers]

Never seen such behavior. Big issue with ants in our shed & Borax is not dealing with them.

 

[Donde]

Thanks yes I've since learned about ant mills. Very interesting.

 

[Dean_Gretsch]

Very odd behavior. Don't think I have ever seen it before.

 

[Fujidave]

Well spotted and taken shot of this odd thing to do.

 

[Donde]

Thanks very much.

 

[Jeff G]

Great shot, but I think Ant NASCAR is more plausible.