Not related to an ID but, what camera did you use? These are amazing photos
Thanks! I used a Nikon D3300 with a 40mm Micro-NIKKOR f/2.8. Not the fanciest lens, but I own some Kenko extension tubes and an external flash that helped a little. Using white sand and a white background really helps concentrate the light on the ant, which allows for a smaller aperture and greater DOF. I really want to get my hands on the Nikon 105 macro, but it's an investment, to say the least. Maybe one of these days... ( )
As far as the ID goes, the first queen is Pogonomyrmex occidentalis and the third is a raptiformica queen—neither of which are currently in my possession. I gather the second is either Formica neorufibarbis or Formica subpolita. I am not very familiar with Colorado ants. Are there any particular shots that would help narrow it down?
Edited by VoidElecent, June 19 2020 - 11:41 AM.