8 replies to this topic

[NawTea]

Hello everyone

 

I had a quick question for anyone located in Eastern WA or familiar with the area. My daughter wants to start a colony for her school project and we have been watching for swarms in our area with no luck. We've found a large nest of camponotus by following some of the workers but they have yet to swarm.  We're starting to get into the much warmer weather so I'm curious as to what the experienced individuals have to say. Any luck that we might find a couple of queen this season still yet?

 

Thanks everyone!

[Miles]

Hi There NawTea. I'm in northern Idaho, so I'm probably not far from where you are. Where exactly are you located? For most of our area, Camponotus have already flown.

[NawTea]

I had figured as much I'm pretty sure the nest we've found is pretty young since the area was developed about 3 or 4 years ago.

We're near spokane.

[Miles]

I had figured as much I'm pretty sure the nest we've found is pretty young since the area was developed about 3 or 4 years ago.

We're near spokane.

I have someone who I know did catch some queens in Spokane. I'll send him message for ya?

[NawTea]

I would appreciate that Thank you!

[Miles]

Two things:

1. Would you please send me a private message with an email that he could use to contact you?

2. Go outside! He just found one walking around. Do you know what to look for?

[NawTea]

PM sent! We'll be headed outside here in a few so I'll totally keep my eyes open. I've been lurking here and reading for a few months and watched countless youtube videos but if you have any tips on finding queens I'm all ears. This is the first time we'll be keeping ants so it's all still a little new for me.

[Miles]

My recommendation for these particular queens is to scan the sidewalks, the sides of buildings and posts - basically, anything wood. Also, flip rocks over as they often make founding chambers under them.

[NawTea]

Will do! Thanks so much for your help