5 replies to this topic

[Kaelwizard]

I just caught a P. pennsylvanica queen today (like literally not even an hour ago). I heard these do best in dirt so I put her in a vial with a wet cotton ball at the bottom and some dirt on top. She has a small burrow that she is in right now. (I doubt she dug it, I assume a water bubble formed it). I gave her a baby dubia roaches leg to eat. 

 

With all of that being said, is there any way I could keep her better? Like a different founding container or something? Also what do they eat and how often? How much sugar/protein do they need? What types of sugar/protein should I be giving her?

[RushmoreAnts]

Also what do they eat and how often? How much sugar/protein do they need? What types of sugar/protein should I be giving her?

I'm not an expert on their nesting preferences, but I do know a bit about their diet. These ants are mostly carnivorous, and don't care for sweet foods. Springtails and fruit flies are their favorite foods, yet you can try experimenting with other insects. It's best to feed them a couple fruit flies a day if they have growing larvae, but if not, five or so once a week should be fine.

[Kaelwizard]

I'll have to look for some springtails once it gets nice. I'll probably look around where I caught her as there is probably some food for her around there. (Why else would she nest there then?)

[RushmoreAnts]

I'll have to look for some springtails once it gets nice. I'll probably look around where I caught her as there is probably some food for her around there. (Why else would she nest there then?)

Well, they seem to like fruit flies just as well, if getting them's easier for you.

[Kaelwizard]

My parents would hate the idea of getting fruit flies. I also heard they smell. I'll just find some springtails. Might have to order if my parents would be willing to order a culture.

[RushmoreAnts]

My parents would hate the idea of getting fruit flies. I also heard they smell. I'll just find some springtails. Might have to order if my parents would be willing to order a culture.

You could also keep them in a garage, if you have one, or outside somewhere (if you have a yard).