Formica hewitti

In New Mexico (Mackay and Mackay 2002) this species is found in pebble and soil mounds (up to 20 cm high, 50 cm in diameter), often with some thatching; occasionally nests are simply under a stone or in a log or stump. Brood was found in nests in July and August. This is a common species in northern New Mexico. This species nests with Camponotus modoc.

Identification
This is a dark brown species with lighter brown appendages. The metasternal process is poorly developed or absent. The cheek has elongate punctures (difficult to see, try looking obliquelly at the surface with the light source coming from the side). The appressed pubescence on the gaster is sparse, and the gaster is little sculptured, resulting in the surface being smooth and shining. There are several erect hairs on the ventral surface of the head, vertex, mesosoma, apex of petiole and gaster. The propodeum is often without erect hairs. (Mackay and Mackay 2002)

Distribution
Widely distributed in the United States. Also Chihuahua, Mexico.

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



Habitat
In New Mexico (Mackay and Mackay 2002) - Meadows through ponderosa pine-riparian up to aspen forests.

Biology
Nevada, Wheeler and Wheeler (1986) - Our 10 records represent 10 localities, which are widely scattered north of the Hot Desert; 6,700-11,600 ft. One record was in the Cool Desert, 3 in the Coniferous Forest Biome, 2 in the ecotone above it, and 3 from the Alpine Biome. Four nests were under stones, 1 was among the roots of a phlox plant which was under a dead sagebrush trunk, and 1 was in a fallen trunk 8 m long.

Nomenclature

 *  hewitti. Formica hewitti Wheeler, W.M. 1917a: 552 (w.q.m.) CANADA. See also: Francoeur, 1973: 208.