On the 18th and 19th of October 2011, researchers, forestry workers, conservationists and ant experts gathered at The James Hutton Insititute for the Wood Ant Symposium, an event aimed at raising the profile of wood ants in the UK. This event was the first of its kind, being entirely devoted to wood ants and promoting the protection of their habitats through increased understanding of their ecology.

This two day event included oral and poster presentations with themes including nestmate recognition, long term monitoring and public engagement. A field trip to Glen Tanar estate on Deeside explored management and conservation.

The event was supported by The James Hutton Institute, Buglife, Scottish Wildlife Trust, Forestry Commission and attracted delegates from across Europe.