Formica fusca

This species of the Formica genus is one of the reasons why people often think of skittish ants when the Formica genus is mentioned. It is sometimes difficult to believe that these ants are so widespread in Europe. They are so timid that they not only run away from conflict, they actually end up as so-called slave ants quite often. Nevertheless, they are so easy to keep that they are often recommended as a good species for new antkeepers. Just make sure they have enough room in their nest; they become stressed quite easily and will often secrete formic acid.

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 12mm
Workers: aprox. 4mm – 8mm
Soldiers: n/a
Colony type: polygyne
Colony size: about 2,000 – 3,000 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Easy.

Habitat
Distribution: Europe
Habitat: often found in grasslands
Natural nest: they often build their nests underground
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