Found my very first queens! And on top of that, they are two VERY different ones. So first, here's the general info: Collected after dark on my back porch....
Habitat of collection: We live out in the country. Our property has woods and pasture. And lots of fire ants..which I hope is not one of these.
Length (from head to gaster): The winged gal (calling her #2) is almost 13 mm. The one who shed her wings (#1) was smaller, but I didn't get a good measurement.
5. #1 (unwinged) is brownish red, with a black gaster. #2 (winged) is black
6. Distinguishing characteristics: #1 (unwinged) smooth, no stinger noted, single node #2 (winged): Smooth, Single node, appeared to have two barbs at end of gaster. I thought head was a little small (male?), but eyes weren't that big. very distinguished plateau look of thorax.
7. Distinguishing behavior: #1 (unwinged) was very still for me. #2 (winged) was a spaz....hence the bad pictures. Continually moved, flipping herself on her back and having to flip back over.
