Description

This is large-sized, monogynous (single-queen) ant species, mainly found in Southeast Europe and the Balkans. They are claustral and live in trees, with nests often located several meters high in branches or trunks. This is a rare ant species, with few known habitats, and due to their lifestyle, only a few specimens can be found. They are polymorphic, meaning they have three different worker sizes (minor, media, major). Both the queen and the workers are large, with black bodies and bright yellow legs. The major caste and the queen have robust, wide heads and strong bites. They form small colonies consisting of only a  few hundred workers. They are shy and reclusive towards other ants, avoiding conflict  instead of engaging in open fights. They do not guard their food sources; their workers forage alone, mostly at night. The queen’s expected lifespan can reach up to 10-15 years.

Feeding: Honey and insects.

Reproduction:The colony reproduces slowly at first, raise 5-15 workers in the first year, but from the third year, they can reach up to 100 workers.

Hibernating: At 5-8°C, from the end of November to the end of March.
More information about wintering can be found in this video.