The red bull ant is one of Australia's most formidable insects, instantly recognisable by its bright red body, powerful jaws and impressive size, with workers reaching up to 40 mm long. Found across southern and eastern Australia, these solitary hunters roam the ground using their excellent eyesight to search for insects and other invertebrates to feed themselves and their developing larvae. Unlike many insects, worker bull ants are surprisingly long-lived, with some surviving for three years. Native bushland provides essential habitat for these fascinating insects, and organisations like Invertebrates Australia advocate for the conservation of Australia's diverse and often overlooked invertebrates. Their sting is famously one of the most painful in Australia, making them a species that's best admired with a little respectful distance.