2 replies to this topic

[CNewton]

I have no pics, I don’t want to mess with the ones I caught. I’ll do the best I can. If I can get some pics, I will post.

1. Location (on a map) of collection: Western New York
2. Date of collection: 5/6/2018
3. Habitat of collection: Area of leaf litter and yard debris. Found in the bed of a truck after dumping the refuse.
4. Length (from head to gaster): Queen, approx: 8mm. Workers 3-4mm they looked similar to Camponotus, but without the long legs.
5. Color, hue, pattern and texture: Black, shiney.
6. Distinguishing characteristics: Very slender, even the queen was thin, pretty sure they were nesting in a hollow twig.
7. Distinguishing behavior: fast. Even the queen was quick to run.
8. Nest description: Fairly sure it was a hollow twig. I found some larvae and workers inside one.
9. Nuptial flight time and date: N/A

[VoidElecent]

As you have likely anticipated, an identification will be essentially impossible without photographs. Based on your description, however, I might suggest Camponotus nearcticus. Compare these images with your queen.

[CNewton]

That looks about right! Thank you!