6 replies to this topic

[Pyrosmog]

I just caught 3 of these outside while I was working on rebuilding a deck.  The pictures posted are of the smallest one that seemed most content on holding still. As far as I can tell they are all the same species , maybe some kind of camponotus or lasius? I left my ant field guide at home so help identifying them would be awesome. 

 

 

1. Location: Rexburg Idaho

2. Date of collection: 5-26-18

3. Habitat of collection: Backyard. Shaded. Long grass and decayed wood.

4. Length (from head to gaster): 15-17mm the one pictured was the smallest one.

5. Color, hue, pattern and texture: Black and shiny with a little bit of redish brown.

6. Distinguishing characteristics: Large

7. Distinguishing behavior: 2 of the 3 are very active while the other one just sits around.

8: Not sure when these flew but they were all already missing their wings

 

[Images of ant]

 

[Batspiderfish]

The imaged ant is most likely Camponotus herculeanus (based on the shininess) but it's difficult to tell apart from C. modoc without better detail/lighting.

[Pyrosmog]

I don't have my camera with my macro lens on me so this is probably about the best that I'm going to get with my cell phone camera.

 

[Batspiderfish]

Thanks! I'm sticking with my original ID.

[Pyrosmog]

Since I don't think these just flew, is there anything special I should do to give them a better chance at survival? Food? Heat?

[StayLoki]

Ahhh!! I'm envious! Still looking for a queen, just keep minding majors and workers..lol

[Batspiderfish]

The Camponotus mating season is just getting started. I wouldn't be surprised if they just flew. But if you don't live in Idaho, the best thing to do is release them somewhere nearby from where you found them.