It is native to North America, where it occurs in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

It preys on arthropods, such as the larvae of the raisin moth (Cadra figulilella) and collects seeds.

The nest entrances are often irregular and are surrounded by loose sand arranged in a circular or semi-circular pattern.

[2] The distribution of this ant extends from Texas to Utah to Baja California, Sonora, and Chihuahua.

The ants were swallowed alive on eagle down and the venom injected in the stings that they inflicted on the mouths and throats of the boys would cause them to hallucinate.