Camponotus castaneus Care Sheet

Scientific Name: Camponotus castaneus

Queen Life span: The queen can reach 20 years of age under proper care.

Colony size: Colonies can be a few hundred strong and in some cases reach thousands

Distribution: Eastern North America, expanding to Florida - Maine.

Queen size: 17-18 mm

Worker size: Majors and Minors can range from 15-17 mm

Natural Habitat: Prairies, fields, and forests

Mating Flights: Late May through July

Circadian Activity: Can be found day and night

Queen Founding Method: Fully Claustral

Monogyne or Polygyne: Monogyne

Recommended Temperature: 77-80°F

Recommended Humidity:  40%-55%.  

Diet: Sugary liquids, spiders, crickets, and fruit flies

Hibernation: Required  Fridge temperature will work for hibernation, November - March. 15°F - 20°F would be an ideal temperature if you have the ability to do so. (DO NOT HIBERNATE IN FREEZER)

Escape Barrier Methods: Fluon or olive Oil on a upside down surface create one of the best barriers.

Formicarium suggestion: Myrmecology Lab Formicarium’s