3 replies to this topic

[jo16]

So I just found some alates inside a log and cot a few, isn't it weird to find alates this late in the fall, and why are they still inside their nest?

They look like Carpenter ants and I think they have majors.

thanks for all the help, and sorry for the few details, I was in a hurry because I would like to know whether they have a chance of being fertile.

if you have any questions feel free to ask.

[rptraut]

Hello jo16;

It’s not unusual for Camponotus alates to overwinter with the colony, ready for their nuptial flight the following year. That’s when females are fertilized, until then they won’t found a colony. It’s best to replace them in the log and watch for their nuptial flight next season.
RPT

Edited by rptraut, Today, 11:04 AM.

[ANTdrew]

Most north American Camponotus overwinter their alates in the nest, so that they are ready to fly the next spring. These alates have 0% chance of being fertile and removing them will seriously harm the colony’s chances of reproducing next year. Replace them ASAP.

[jo16]

thanks for the help, but is it to late to put the ants back? and I'm not sure where all of the ants went because there nest was destroyed, it was completely an accident and if there is a way to help them, please tell me.