Crematogaster hespera

Buren (1968) noted this species was largely arboreal and favored large cottonwood trees growing along riverbanks. There were also found in other trees and in downed logs. Mackay and Mackay (2002)reported for New Mexico: This species nests in the soil, usually under stones. Brood was found in nests from May to August, sexuals in August. Foragers tend coccids on the roots of snakeweed (Gutierrezia sarothrae). They are attracted to baits, including rotten liver and tuna fish.

Distribution
California and east to western Texas, north to Utah; Sonora and Lower California.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Nearctic Region: United States. Neotropical Region: Mexico.

Habitat
In New Mexico (Mackay and Mackay 2002): Chihuahuan Desert, creosotebush scrub up to pinyon juniper forests (5600 ft.), occasionally in riparian areas.

Biology
Nevada, Wheeler and Wheeler (1986) - We have 5 records from 5 localities; 3,900-6,300 ft. Churchill Co.: 5 mi. SSW Fallon 3,900 ft., in cottonwood grove in an irrigated farmyard; the nest was in an exposed cottonwood root and in a piece of rotten wood in a cavity under the bark (Fig. 30). Lyon Co.: 6 mi. SE Wabuska 4,300 ft., in a cottonwood grove, workers in a procession up and down a cottonwood trunk. Nye Co.: Fairbanks Spring. Washoe Co.: Washoe Lake 5,100 ft., on a sand dune in loose sand at base of Prunus andersonii; Incline Village, in house, producing frass, 6,300 ft.

Nomenclature

 *  hespera. Crematogaster (Crematogaster) hespera Buren, 1968b: 98 (w.q.) U.S.A.