4 replies to this topic

[SelfDeludedFool]

1. Location (on a map) of collection:

Boise Idaho, lower end of the Boise National Forest, near the Bogus Basin Ski Resort.

2. Date of collection:

6/12/18

3. Habitat of collection:

Pine Forest

4. Length (from head to gaster):

About 10-11 mm

5. Color, hue, pattern and texture:

Glossy black gaster, mixed red/black thorax, with a dark red head.

6. Distinguishing characteristics:

One petiole node. The head and body proportions make me think formica but I'm unsure.

7. Distinguishing behavior:

Very fast, especially for a Queen, probably the most difficult capture I have ever experienced.

[Aaron567]

It is a Formica queen. Western US has so many Formica species so I don't know exactly which one but someone else probably knows.

[SelfDeludedFool]

It is a Formica queen. Western US has so many Formica species so I don't know exactly which one but someone else probably knows.

That's about what I had gathered as well. I'm almost certain now that it's Formica obscuripes, coleration and size fit, as well as distribution. That leaves me with another issue, however. I've just read that they are psuedo parasitic with their own species. A young queen will invade an existing colony and eventually drive off the existing queen or kill her. If this is Formica obscuripes, will I need to round up some workers for her?

Edited by SelfDeludedFool, June 18 2018 - 11:49 AM.

[LC3]

I agree on Formica obscuripes.

All you need is around 6 or so Formica spp. worker pupae.

[SelfDeludedFool]

I agree on Formica obscuripes.

All you need is around 6 or so Formica spp. worker pupae.

Thank you, I'll do my best to make that happen.