Backstory: I was in a meeting at work at 8:30 and could see flying insects and the birds in a feeding frenzy outside. When the meeting finally ended it was 11:30. I found many dead males, but could only find a single one of what I think is a queen.
Location: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. Map.
Date of collection: June 21 2018, at 11:30 a.m
Habitat: Lawns in an industrial park.
Length: 25+ mm.
Coloration: Dark reddish brown, depending on the light can look almost black or deep red.
Distinguishing characteristics: It is huge, hairy, and has a strange smell.
Anything else distinctive: These are food around here. They are called "Chicatanas", but that can mean several different species depending on locality. Since they are only available in great numbers once or twice a year they are a delicacy. I've tried them and they are good. People here also eat ant larvae, called "Escamoles". If you are ever in Central or Southern Mexico at the right time give them a try.
Nest description: I did not see the nest, but I believe they came from the one in the pictures. The workers have been taking out debris all year long. There are similar nests all over the park, sometimes on flat areas, sometimes where the lawn meets the foundations.
Nuptial flight time and date: Coworkers tell me they saw many fliers yesterday evening. I saw them this morning, June 21st, at around 9 a.m., in small numbers.
Post the clearest pictures possible of the top, side, and face of the ant in question, and if possible, their nest and the habitat they were collected in:
Queen(?) Face
Queen(?) Side
Queen(?) Top
Boyfriend Side
Boyfriend Face
Circle of life
Nest (?)
Habitat
THANK YOU!
