15 replies to this topic

[drtrmiller]

In an effort to serve a growing number of customers, I'm asking for public comments on the use of sugar solutions.

 

Please let me know in the comments below about the colonies you keep (their number and size), how long you've been keeping ants, what sugar solutions you switched to after using Sunburst, and why you switched.  What I can do to make using Sunburst worthwhile for you and your ant colonies?

 

Edited by drtrmiller, July 24 2019 - 7:10 PM.

[Acutus]

I currently keep Camponotus ( C. castaneus, C. chromiaodes, C. pennsylvanicus) Aphaenogaster (A. fulva, A. ?) and Crematogaster ? I use Honey with all just seems natural and cheaper than Sunburst and seems to work fine. I don't mix it just pure honey.

[rbarreto]

I alternate between Sunburst and honey. The ants seem to enjoy both equally although they do get bored if offered the same one over and over. Have you thought about offering different colour choices?

[FeedTheAnts]

I keep Crematogaster (2 colonies, one massive and one small) and Camponotus(a few different species, all young colonies). I prefer to feed my ants fruit whenever I can, apples being their favorite. I also feed them honey from time to time, but never sugar water. I don't have issues with sugar water, but honey works better imo.

[Thunder_Birds]

I have never tried or heard that sunburst stuff. I just use regular honey, for the past 3 years and it’s been great. 

Attached Images

• 

[Serafine]

I use Sunburst mostly for my small founding colonies (and occasionally as a special treat) where it is AMAZING. You can leave it in the feeder for two weeks, then add a drop of water and leave it in the feeder for another 1-2 weeks (I know this isn't recommended but it works anyway, the stuff is really durable).

 

For my large Camponotus colony it just isn't feasible anymore, yesterday they managed to empty their 4ml byformica feeder in THREE HOURS. Their sugar liquid consumption is getting insane as temperatures get warmer outside.

Edited by Serafine, May 17 2020 - 3:22 AM.

[RushmoreAnts]

I just use honey, mostly. For variety, I may start using sugar water and some other sugary foods, and perhaps fruit.

[NickAnter]

I use either sugar water, sugar honey water, or the sugary part of THA's ant juice, which is very similar, but certainly smells different. I don't use straight honey anymore, as it is too easy for ants to get stuck in it.

[VoidElecent]

Sugar water mixtures have always worked for me. I've experimented with adding drops of honey, different kinds of sugar, maple syrup, etc. and have had much success. I guess I don't really understand why I should go out of my way to buy sunburst as opposed to mixing something of my own, which is cheaper, just as convenient, and merely a matter of turning on the kettle and finding a jar. Plus, I don't have to wait for shipping.

 

Novelty items like feeders and formicaria are different—they are harder to construct alone, and it is more efficient to purchase one from someone who knows what they're doing and does it well (hence, the success of byFormica liquid feeders). I guess, maybe do a better job of advertising what makes sunburst special. On Amazon, the only listed distinguishing feature is "In addition to sugar, Sunburst supplies the perfect balance of electrolytes to stimulate appetite and promote natural feeding response", although I am not really sure what this means; perhaps go into a little more detail.

 

Of all the people who visit Amazon to purchase ant supplies, frankly, many are parents who want to buy supplies for their kids who watch AC and just caught a queen. I don't know the numbers obviously, but while a good chunk do purchase Sunburst, you're missing out on the customers who settle for "I'm not going to pay $20 for some sugar water, I can just use honey. They're ants, for god's sake!".

 

I know you get a lot of exposure on Amazon, but I think a website or even a blog could go a long way. You could experiment with different sugar:water ratios, different colors, perhaps market to specific species (e.g. "Good for Camponotus", "Works really well with Aphaenogaster"), and give your customers an opportunity to learn more about why buying from you is really that good of an idea.

[zantezaint]

Hummingbird nectar or maple syrup, both mixed with water.

[brian]

I have looked at using it for over a year now. I guess what's stopping me is wondering if I Can freeze part of the unused bottle to save for when its needed? If I was sure I could I would buy it right now.
Also good survey, i like that your giving people the opportunity to speak openly on your products. You liquid feeders are outstanding. I have tried others and not a single one is as good as yours. There just hands down the most convenient and easy to use liquid feeders out there.

[drtrmiller]

Can I freeze part of the unused bottle to save for when its needed? 

 

Excellent question--I can't believe I've never actually considered it!

Given what I know about how the product loses its potency (exposure to air after opening the bottle repeatedly), it is definitely possible that solidifying the contents by freezing would suspend any chemical changes and prolong the useful life.

[brian]

Can I freeze part of the unused bottle to save for when its needed?

Excellent question--I can't believe I've never actually considered it!

Given what I know about how the product loses its potency (exposure to air after opening the bottle repeatedly), it is definitely possible that solidifying the contents by freezing would suspend any chemical changes and prolong the useful life.

Thank you.

[FSTP]

This is a byFormica Sunburst Ant Nectar thread.

[Serafine]

Which is why it is in the byFormica subsection. Terry is basically gathering feedback, I don't see a problem with that.

[TechAnt]

What if you don’t use it currently, but intend to use it in the future?