Queen ants remove their wings after mating to prepare for establishing a new colony.
Post-Mating Wing Removal
After the mating ritual, the queen ant undertakes a crucial step: removing her wings. Here's why:
- Preparing for a New Colony: The primary reason is to prepare for the task of establishing a new colony. Once mated, the queen ant will fly to a suitable location to start a nest. The wings are no longer needed for flight.
- Conserving Energy: Wings are heavy and require energy to maintain. Removing them allows the queen to conserve valuable energy which is needed for egg production, nest building, and caring for her initial brood.
- Digging and Nest Building: Wings would be cumbersome when digging underground or navigating through the narrow tunnels of a newly established nest. Removing them aids in the process of digging and nest construction.
- Not Needed Anymore: Queen ants use their wings only for their nuptial flight, where they mate. Once this mating flight is over, the wings become unnecessary and are disposed of.
The Process of Wing Removal
Queen ants typically bite or twist their wings off at the base, leaving stumps behind. This process is normal and a sign that the queen is getting ready for her new role.
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Preparing for colony | The queen no longer requires to fly so now needs to set up a colony. |
| Conserving energy | Removing the heavy wings enables the queen to save energy for other critical tasks. |
| Facilitating digging | Wings are cumbersome when digging underground so this makes life easier for her |
| No more flight | She does not need wings for anything once her nuptial flight is over. |
