As I mentioned in response to a mail on a different subject recently, a worker appeared within seconds to investigate the tail end of a drone everted by Sue Cobey, indicating that powerful pheromones (scent signals) are at work. What's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander and so I suggest that the 'mating sign' is a homing signal left to assist others to complete the perilous job of mating.
Chris
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