Lasius niger
Appearance:
The queen reaches a size of 15 mm, whereas the workers are rather small at 4-5 mm. A pedicel between the thorax and abdomen, as well as the dark brown, almost black color characterize this ant. It does not have a sting.
Reproduction:
After hibernating in the soil, the queens lay their eggs in spring. The larvae hatch 3-4 weeks later, feeding only on the secretions of the royal salivary glands. Once the first workers have hatched, they take over brood care, nest building and food procurement. Males are not hatched until later.
Way of life:
Clearly defined paths lead the workers in search of food. Sugary substances and protein-rich food are mainly on the agenda.
Swarming behavior:
In mid to late summer, the queens mate in the air with the fertile males, which die after mating.
Nesting cake:
Carpenter ants usually build their nests in the ground or under paving stones on the sunny side of buildings. The location of the earth nests can be recognized by the finely atomized earth around the exit holes.
