Camponotus cruentatus

This European species of the Camponotus genus is quite popular because of how big the colonies can become and because it’s hibernation period is significanly shorter than other European species. Ants of this particular species are very tough and quite strong, but they usually only attack when their think their nest is in danger. Aside from the sheer numbers that a colony can have, it’s also one of the biggest ant species in all of Europe.

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 14mm – 16mm
Workers: aprox. 6mm – 14mm
Soldiers: n/a
Colony type: monogyne
Colony size: about 8,000 – 10,000 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Easy.

Habitat
Distribution: Southern Europe
Habitat: often found in forests
Natural nest: they often build their nests in dead wood
Suitable formicaria: Ytong-, plaster-, 3D- and acrylicnests are all suitable for this species
Recommended humidity: 50% – 60%
Recommended temperature: 21°C – 24°C
Nutrition: a sugar source such as honey or sugarwater and a protein source such as prey insects like crickets or fruitflies. Insect jelly is also a suitable feeder since it contains both sugar and protein and varius other beneficial components

Misc
Hibernation: yes, from end of november till the end of february
Claustral: yes, no need to feed until the first workers arrive
Matingflight period: may – june
Egg to worker: 7 to 9 weeks depending on how they are being kept