2 replies to this topic

[s_tonatiuh]

Found this large ant in my yard, I suspect it’s a queen but I’m inexperienced.
Location of collection: Newbury Park, CA
2. Date of collection: 07/02/2023
3. Habitat of collection: Suburban Backyard, 1.5 miles from the nearest undeveloped land
4. Length (from head to gaster): 9-11 mm (hard to keep ant still)
5. Color, hue, pattern and texture: black/dark brown
6. Distinguishing characteristics: large size, see included images
7. Distinguishing behavior: solitary and frantic
8. Nest description: unknown
9. Nuptial flight time and date: very recent? ~7/2/23

Attached Images

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[bmb1bee]

Veromessor andrei queen. They're a type of harvester ant and will require seeds to eat while founding their colony.

[s_tonatiuh]

Appreciate it! I have some for my Pheidole and Pogonomyrmex, I’ll give some to her too.