Formica cinerea

This species of the Formica genus are surprisingly aggressive. People often think of timid, skittish ants when the genus Formica is mentioned, but not with this particular species. While they are sensitive to vibrations and sudden change in lighting, they do not shy away from a fight. According to a scientific journal this species actually hunts down prey in multiple small groups.

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 12mm
Workers: aprox. 6mm – 8mm
Soldiers: n/a
Colony type: polygyne
Colony size: about 8,000 – 10,000 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Easy.

Habitat
Distribution: Northern Europe
Habitat: often found near riverbeds and forest edges
Natural nest: they often build their nests underground or under rocks
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 the end of october till the end of march
Claustral: yes, no need to feed until the first workers arrive
Matingflight period: june – july
Egg to worker: 8 to 10 weeks depending on how they are being kept