3 replies to this topic

[KooYon]

So I'm VERY new to anting. From what I've seen in YouTube so far is that most nuptial flights happen a day it two after rain. But where I am in SW Texas, it hasn't rained in almost 2 months.

Are nuptial flights still happening? If so how will I know when/where to look for queens?

Thanks for the help.

[AntsAreUs]

Ants can fly without rain, sometimes during heat waves of all things. After rain when the sun is out and really humid is the best time for hunting down queens it seems. Some ant flights are somewhat triggered by circadian cycles. That being said, some ants do fly at night which can be quite tricky to find yourself. Most people setup black light traps in order to catch queens during the night.

Edited by AntsAreUs, June 24 2018 - 12:13 PM.

[KooYon]

Interesting. Looks like I'll be researching how to set up a black light trap. Thanis

[AntsAreUs]

Interesting. Looks like I'll be researching how to set up a black light trap. Thanis

Well you can simply set up a white sheet over something in your yard for example and shine UV light on it. You can pick the queens up as they approach it if you happen to be watching of course (which is the main way this setup works). You can also get a ton of flying bugs all over the sheet like moths which is fun to watch.