3 replies to this topic

[Stubyvast]

Hello everyone!
I've been seeing this formica species running around my yard for a long time. After some exploration, I managed to unturn a log and see a whole colony of them, queen included, but sadly I didn't get any footage from them and I wanted to keep them where they are. However, today I caught a worker. Do you guys think you could ID it? I know that Formica are pretty difficult to ID, but give it your best shot.
Size: 5 mm
Colors: Reddish/orange, and black
Caste: worker
Location: British Columbia. Pavement. Nested in rotten wood.
I was thinking it could be Formica neorofibarbis, but I don't think the head looks much like it. I tried following the "Key to Neararctic Formica fusca group workers" guide, but the terminology broke my brain. 
 

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Edited by Stubyvast, June 10 2025 - 6:12 PM.

[Mettcollsuss]

This is neorufibarbis. The other bicolored claustral species in BC are more pilose.

[Stubyvast]

Ah ok thanks! 

[RushmoreAnts]

Excellent ID thread! Professional inquiry with clear photos, concise and professional response. I wish we had more of these.