Burchell's Army Ants

Eciton burchellii

Considered a "new world" ant, this species can be found from Northern Argentina up to Southern Mexico where they occupy rainforest ecosystems. They use their bodies to form temporary nests called bivouacs during their 15 day nomadic cycle before a 20 day statatory phase. They are polymorphic, with distinct physical castes containing tiny and medium workers, and large soldier ants. Over half their diet is other ants but can consume larger prey like cockroaches and scorpions.

Recorded lineage

kingdomAnimaliaphylumArthropodaclassInsectaorderHymenopterafamilyFormicidaegenusEcitonspeciesEciton burchellii

Observed

May 17, 2026

Location

Rurrenabaque, Bolivia