Here's an ant to strike fear into the heart! The Australian bull ant grows up to 4cm long, and where I grew up we called them 'inch ants'. Despite their fearsome-looking mandibles, it's their sting which causes agony, like a very bad bee sting. The few times I've been stung in my life, it made me cry, it was so shocking!
They are generally peaceful, but if their nest is threatened they pile out and advance upon the (usually hapless) creature that blundered into it. As they are one of few ants blessed with sight, they follow movement and are dogged in going after anyone or thing that comes too near.
This one was busy on a tree while I was shooting wildflowers, and didn't show me any hostility.
Subscribe to see EXIF info for this image (if available)