3 replies to this topic

[Naturenut1233]

I went outside at 3 PM today and noticed that the hundreds of ant mounds in my backyard were all sending up their queens and drones. At least two different species. I decided to photograph and film them. I had ants crawling all over my hair, the camera, everywhere. Once they came back down it was amazing how fast they started shedding their wings. I didn't mess with the speed of the film at all, they were going the speed shown in the film. Busy busy. Not every day your entire back yard is full of swarms of ants. For those of you that can't get enough of ants taking off for their nuptial flights, here is the short link to a quick video I put together of a couple nests. If this isn't allowed or posted in the wrong place let me know. Thought you all might enjoy it.

 

Edited by Naturenut1233, September 11 2017 - 8:42 PM.

[Shaye]

Nice short video. No matter how much you've seen their pre-flight congregations, it still ends up being interesting to watch. Perhaps just because there are so many queens!

[T.C.]

Lasius neoniger?

AND great footage.

[Naturenut1233]

Yeah I'm guessing lasius but not good at distinguishing down more than that. I know that one type was reddish brown and the other type was these little yellow workers with reddish queens. Both were flying at the same time. Thanks for the compliments. I think my neighbors must think I'm crazy walking around my yard with test tubes and laying down photographing the dirt.