2 replies to this topic

[PaxxMantid]

hi all -

 

I have 3 colonies that are all very new - queen with a few workers and eggs, but just starting out.

 

I got these from someone else and because I was moving I wasn't able to put them into hibernation (wine cooler) like I ordinarily would have. Now, winter is more than halfway done! 

 

I'm still thinking that i'll start reducing the temp in the room they are in a few degrees every day, and then when it gets down to 60 degrees or so i'll move them into the wine cooler and let them chill for, maybe 2 or even 3 months.

 

From what I've learned, skipping the hibernation phase isn't great for the ants, even for newly founded colonies. 

 

Anyone have any opinions on this? Hoping to keep these guys healthy! thanks!

[PaxxMantid]

Oops, I double posted this. Please reply to other thread thanks!

[Artisan_Ants]

Yeah, if you can reduce the temperature of your room, then that's great. I recommend Hibernating them at around 5-8º C (41-46.5 ºF.) Lower the temperature to around 50º if you can, and then introduce them to your cooler. What I found useful to reduce the temperature is an ice pack. It creates condensation inside the test tube, but it works, and my ants are fine with it.

Edited by Artisan_Ants, January 19 2024 - 6:45 AM.