4 replies to this topic

[YsTheAnt]

My camponotus modoc colony was in hibernation since early September, but when I checked on them a few days ago they were foraging. I took them out of my garage and gave them some agave nectar and a piece of turkey. I checked today and it seems like they dragged the turkey into their nest. They are currently next to a heating cable. My question is, if they took the turkey, are they completely out of hibernation and ready to lay eggs? Also, how long does this species need to hibernate?

[nurbs]

My camponotus modoc colony was in hibernation since early September, but when I checked on them a few days ago they were foraging. I took them out of my garage and gave them some agave nectar and a piece of turkey. I checked today and it seems like they dragged the turkey into their nest. They are currently next to a heating cable. My question is, if they took the turkey, are they completely out of hibernation and ready to lay eggs? Also, how long does this species need to hibernate?

 

Won't be hibernating mine til mid-November.

[MrPurpleB]

I am not really sure on the specifics on this species. In North America, any hobbyist typically start to put their species in hibernation around November until late February and early March. Depending where you live, it may be different.

 

I suggest going outside and checking the activity of foraging ants. If there are less ants active it might a sign that they are hibernating. When it starts to get warmer in your region check the activity of wild ants again. If they are more active, then they most likely out of hibernation.  

 

I do not believe your colony is completely out of hibernation. The heat from the heating cable probably interrupted their hibernation. It is best to continue their hibernation since it is very important in providing the queen rest she needs.

[KBant]

i got my modocs from Nurbs and i put mine into hibernation last week. they weren't foraging, only 1 would be out in the foraging area at a given time, larvae weren't getting any bigger and they remained fat, suggesting they were ready for hibernation. i put them in my fridge which is about 40F, and i checked up on them yesterday. they look kinda sorta dead but their antennas were moving so I'm happy. 

 

i wil take mine out before march 1. giving them 4 months of hibernation. 

Edited by KBant, November 4 2017 - 4:54 AM.

[YsTheAnt]

Alright, I'll put them back into hibernation. Thanks for the help!