8 replies to this topic

[futurebird]

What items do you keep handy for "ant emergencies" (and what emergencies is it best to be prepared for)

 

Here is my list:

 

1. asperator: Catching ants without hurting them is hard. What will you do if they escape? If the nest is knocked over? I'm so glad I got one early. 
2. Extra nests in a few relevant sizes. Normally you should end up with some extras as you learn to make and buy nests, but if one of your nests is damaged or compromised it's nice to be able to move the colony to a new clean nest without much fuss. 
3. Long tweezers. Great for fetching items out of the nest with minimal fuss
4. shelf safe ant food alternatives. insects are best... but having some foods you know your ants enjoy that will keep under any conditions is wise. 
5. Paint brush. A gentle way to move ants and brood. Also useful for cleaning.

What else?

 

[m99]

I was just thinking of starting a thread similar to this a few days ago, sort of a "show off your non-formicarium supplies."

 

For us noobs it's easy to find out what the formicarium options are, but all the other "gear" of antkeeping is so personalized, I'm really curious to know what people use. I'm sure there's all sorts of tools and handy little techniques that I'll never know about because people don't think to talk about them.

 

RE: The original question, so far in my very brief experience I would definitely put tweezers at number one, they've made it all so much easier to feed and manage the test tubes. I also have an aspirator but thankfully haven't needed to use it yet, but feel safer knowing I've got the option!

Edited by m99, August 21 2021 - 2:16 PM.

[ANTdrew]

My goose feather is the tool I use the most day-to-day.

[futurebird]

what is a goose feather tool.

[ANTdrew]

Just a legit feather I use to brush ants off of crap I need to refill. I use it to corral escapees as well. Goose feathers are stiffer than other feathers and a lot bigger.

[ConcordAntman]

I use wild turkey feathers, myself. 

Also:

Firm and soft grip forceps

aspirator and spare receptacle bottle

cotton

Fluon

test tubes

Extra rubber plugs (for formicaria ports)

Granny Smith apples

Baked mealworms

[rptraut]

Pipettes and water
Small spray bottle with water
Vaseline, vinegar, baby powder
Cotton swabs
Granulated sugar, fish flakes and pellets
Frozen turkey, chicken, liver, flies, earwigs etc
Magnifying glass
Pill bottles (great for catching queens)
Small rechargeable vacuum cleaner
A very understanding spouse (the most important accessory)

[rptraut]

Notebook & pen
Flashlight
Camera
Microscope
Masking tape, cellophane tape, labels

[SYUTEO]

Wait, why does the title say 'Ant Emercencies'?