Camponotus sayi

This American species of the Camponotus genus has, like Camponotus nicobarensis, a fast rate of brood development. They are quite suitable for beginners since keeping them is quite easy. All you need, besides the usual food, moisture and nest, is a device such as a heating mat or heating cable to ensure optimal growth. And let’s face it; who couldn’t fall in love with their beautiful colours?

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 12mm – 14mm
Workers: aprox. 6mm – 12mm
Soldiers: n/a
Colony type: monogyne
Colony size: about 2000 – 3000 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Fairly easy. They require higher temperatures

Habitat
Distribution: America
Habitat: often found in forests
Natural nest: they often build their nests underground and in dead pieces of wood
Suitable formicaria: Ytong-, plaster- and 3D nests are all suitable for this species
Recommended humidity: 50% – 70%
Recommended temperature: 22°C – 28°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 november till march
Claustral: yes, no need to feed until the first workers arrive
Matingflight period: june – july
Egg to worker: 6 to 8 weeks depending on how they are being kept