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McK: Camponotus castaneus (McK) (24. Jan 2009 18:02)

Original blog here (Dutch).

Camponotus castaneus is a large reddish colored carpenter ant (minor worker: 7-10 mm overall length) coming from America. This species is very similar to Camponotus americanus Mayr , but differs in that it is usually concolorous red to reddish brown and lacks erect hairs on the cheeks. Camponotus americanus has a darker head (often approaching black) than the rest of the body and has erect hairs on the cheeks (best seen in major workers).

This species nests in rotting logs and stumps, exposed soil, or in soil under objects. It is not considered to be a serious pest of wood products, though they are sometimes encountered in houses or other structures. However, they usually only enter buildings to search for food, rather than to nest in them. They have their nuptial flights in early May through mid June and in September.

Some pictures of my queen with her so far only worker and a little brood.
They are currently in hibernation.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3407/3223040828_c99579b123.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3412/3223041386_d4d644ff95.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3121/3223041118_46f4ec8b59.jpg

JimmyVe: Re: Camponotus castaneus (McK) (25. Jan 2009 17:12)

Nice ants McK, good luck with them. ;)