Leptomyrmex ruficeps spider ant holding her gaster in the raised position, allowing her to dispense her defensive chemistry forward over her head.

Cape Tribulation, Queensland, Australia
Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus spider ants scurry to carry brood to safety after the photographer uncovers their nest.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus spider ants scurry to carry brood to safety after the photographer uncovers their nest.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
Leptomyrmex ruficeps spider ant.

Cape Tribulation, Queensland, Australia
Leptomyrmex ruficeps spider ant holding her gaster in the raised position, allowing her to dispense her defensive chemistry forward over her head.

Cape Tribulation, Queensland, Australia
Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus spider ant.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
Spider ants (Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus) store liquid food in the swollen abdomens of replete workers.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus spider ants scurry to carry brood to safety after the photographer uncovers their nest.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
A Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus forager scales a grass blade for a better look.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
Spider ants (Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus) store liquid food in the swollen abdomens of replete workers.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
Spider ants (Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus) store liquid food in the swollen abdomens of replete workers.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
Spider ants (Leptomyrmex erythrocephalus) store liquid food in the swollen abdomens of replete workers.

Harrietville, Victoria, Australia
See photo in original gallery.
all images and text © Alex Wild 2001-2013