4 replies to this topic

[Michaelofvancouver]

So, I took my Camponotus colony out of hibernation nearly three weeks ago, and the queen laid eggs which are now small larvae, but the ants still aren't foraging (they haven't accepted any protein, and no sugar sources). They still have pretty full gasters, so I'm thinking of putting them in a cooler with some ice cubes, but will that kill the larvae?

 

I was thinking of rehibernating them for two weeks or so.

Edited by Michaelofvancouver, February 17 2015 - 6:18 PM.

[Mercutia]

If they're still a young colony, don't expect them to forage often. They will only venture out when needed. I find Camponotus to be very passive when they have a small amount of workers. You can hibernate them again, but I don't see this as being necessary.

[Foogoo]

I've noticed the same thing, glad I'm not the only one. I see evidence of their foraging so I can only assume (and hope) they're getting enough food for the larvae.

[Michaelofvancouver]

If they're still a young colony, don't expect them to forage often. They will only venture out when needed. I find Camponotus to be very passive when they have a small amount of workers. You can hibernate them again, but I don't see this as being necessary.

 

I don't see any sign of foraging at all, for example, I've never seen a worker even go near an entrance, and the insects I give them haven't even moves. 

 

Rehibernation won't kill the brood right?

[Chromerust]

It sounds like your ants are not doing what you want them to, so somehow you believe you can manipulate the situation. I don't know if it's ok to force them to hibernate again, and I don't think anybody can tell you if it's safe. Unless you are watching them 24/7, it doesn't mean they don't come out ever. My recommendation is to let them do what they want, the ants know what's best for them.