6 replies to this topic

[Newtot]

Hi guys so I would first off like to say I am new here and I sort of have a unique story. I am a cancer patient and as a result have been sooo bored. I can't walk far to collect ants and to be honest I'm not sure how. I know I have some colonies of red and black carpenters and some tiny lil black ants as well as fire ants lol 🤣. My son is autistic and loves science. He is 7 and knows more about dinos and space then anyone I know. We stumbled across ant keeping and are both very excited to start colonies. My question is there someone who would be willing to donate a queen or two in our area? We are located in North ga USA. Any advice appreciated on collecting queens easy would be great too. Thank you

[AntBoi3030]

I'm sorry to hear about your condition. Here are some helpful links and suggestions. 

 

For queens for sale check this out:

https://www.formicul...-go/?hl=georgia

 

As for easily collecting queens, I think backlighting would be a good option. Especially since you're in the South, the temperatures should be high enough already. You shouldn't have to leave your yard if you do this. The queens come to you!

 

Check this thread for more info on backlighting: 

https://www.formicul...tch-queen-ants/

[AntsGodzilla]

AntsCanada has videos on how to easily catch ants and use the test tube method. Black lighting is an easy way to catch queen ants, as previously mentioned.

[Newtot]

Awesome thank y'all so much. We did go to the park and look around a bit today and struck out. Absolutely nothing but a few and I mean FEW workers.

[ANTdrew]

Definitely try a black light trap on warm humid nights. Use the search bar to read up on how to do this.

[Newtot]

Oh I was going to ask as well. Does it have to be a black light or can I use a regular bulb? Just curious if they are drawn like moths? I don't currently have a black light, I know they are super cheap so no biggie but I do have plenty of regular bulbs.

[ANTdrew]

Use a black light bulb, not regular bulbs.