3 replies to this topic

[AntsBrazil]

I saw this rat dead yesterday, near a Solenopsis Saevissima colony and I was going to remove it but then I saw millions of ants under it, then I decided to let them have some fun.

This morning they covered the rat with dirt, looks like they are expanding the colony into the rat's body. Also seen Odontomachus sp. and some Camponotus around the area, maybe they are trying to defend their food by doing this. Their colony is under that rock that is visible in the picture.

 

Edited by JPSMedeiros, December 28 2016 - 12:56 PM.

[MrILoveTheAnts]

Ants do this to protect their food as they dismember it or also perhaps to help preserve it somewhat so it doesn't go bad as quickly in the process. In some species it's been observed that ants will do this with fallen pieces of fruit, essentially planting "stone" fruits who's seeds are a single large nut-like object. While this does plant the fruit it doesn't disperse it away from the parent tree unless second hand from a larger animal.

[AntsBrazil]

I poked the dirt and a lot of ants came out. 

[Alabama Anter]

Now all u have to do is cook the ants and the rat to create a yummy snack!