Ants & "Globe" Willows

[LarryK]

Hi! Need some help ..............

Have a couple "globe" willows for shade, but have noticed that black ants have eaten away at the trunk bark.

Is this common?

What action should I take to stop this from spreading and due to the lost trunk bark, is the tree still healthy?

need pics ?.......... can provide.

All assistance welcomed.

LarryK

 

[John Paul Sanborn]

Most willow gwt canker and decay pockets.

sure pics would be better.

 

[Kneejerk Bombas]

I think ants get a bad rap.

It's most likely an injury or canker on the tree attracted the ants. They are just there licking up the sap as it flows.
Maybe you could use a lower speed when you ram the tree with your lawn mower?