2 replies to this topic

[ColKurtz]

Hopefully 3rd time is the charm for this newbie searching for a queen to raise a colony.

 

Date:  7/28, Time, Between 7 and 8pm on an overcast evening.  

Location:  Bergen County (northern) NJ

Wooded area, In/under/around a fallen, rotting tree with leaves and associated materials on the ground

 

Size:  7mm

 

Thought it was a Camponotus worker at first (there was a lot going on at this fallen tree in a short period of time, a Caponotus queen was involved,  I can provide details if needed).  I saw it on the forest floor and captured it.  On closer examination, wing scars on a broad thorax region were observed.  These can be seen on the photo where it is by itself (without the small rock or piece of wood it seems to be very fond of)

 

Album: 7/28/17

11 images

0 comments

 

 

Thanks everyone.  

[VoidElecent]

Seems to be a Lasius umbratus social parasite.

[ColKurtz]

Seems to be a Lasius umbratus social parasite.

Thank you.

My heart sunk when I read those last two words "social parasite ", but after a little research, there may some hope. Http://www.formiculture.com/topic/3138-lasius-umbratus/. I think I have found another Lasius colony with some pupae and workers. I am not sure though and may post a follow up with pictures of these workers.