4 replies to this topic

[noebl1]

1. Location of collection:                     Attracted to lights outside 

 

2. Date of collection:                            7-22-2016 at ~10:45PM EST, 78F, 74% humidity

3. Habitat of collection:                       Heavy wooded area

 

4. Length (from head to gaster):         ~5.9mm  

 

5. Color, hue, pattern and texture:      Dark reddish-brown, legs tannish

 

Caught 2 of these last night attracted to the light posts along the driveway and I believe a ton of male alates as well (much smaller).  Lasius?

 

Edited by noebl1, July 23 2016 - 7:15 AM.

[Batspiderfish]

Looks like Lasius alienus to me.

[noebl1]

That makes sense, the Lasius had been prepping in one colony for the last few days but not flying, this picture was taken about 24hours prior.  They would rush them all out to the entrance, then bring them back in at night:

[Batspiderfish]

I've found it really difficult to make sense of the flights in Portand this year. I've only found meager evidence of a Formica flight this week, and no sign of the other July fliers, save Camponotus and some Tetramorium.

 

Last night's calm, muggy 90F was immediately followed by wind and rain.   I'm sure the ants would have loved it, otherwise.

Edited by Batspiderfish, July 23 2016 - 8:14 AM.

[noebl1]

We've had Temnothorax flying off an on for awhile now (TON of them last night), especially if hot and humid.  Camponotus seems to come in waves (I saw a couple male alates last night).  Tetramorium came and went for a couple weeks, but seems to be quieting down.  Haven't seen any Formica or Pheidole yet this season.

Edited by noebl1, July 23 2016 - 9:42 AM.