SummaryThe paper describes observations made over a period of two years on the feeding habits, general ecology and distribution of five species of ants (harvester‐, stink‐, soldier‐, tree‐, and sugar‐ants) in Northern Somalia, p‐incipally in the plains and bushland of the Haud.Harvester and stink ants are discussed in some detail, and some dimensions of excavated nests and runways are given. The occurrence of associated insects is noted and the ecological roles of seed‐eating and predatory ants (particularly in relation to termites) are discussed.There are notes on the climate and topography of the region, and a glossary of vernacular name