What is Ant-Keeping?
Ant-keeping is the practice of caring for live ant colonies in artificial habitats, allowing hobbyists to observe their behavior, growth, and complex social structures up close. Using setups like test tube nests, formicariums, or terrariums, you can create a safe environment where ants can thrive while you study their fascinating lives.
It’s a blend of biology, patience, and curiosity. Ant-keepers often marvel at how organized and cooperative these tiny creatures are — from foraging and nest-building to caring for their young and defending their territory.
Why Try Ant-Keeping?
Ant-keeping offers a window into one of nature’s most impressive social systems. It’s educational, low-cost, and can be enjoyed year-round indoors. You’ll learn about species-specific needs, feeding habits, and the stages of colony development.
For many, it’s a relaxing yet engaging hobby that sparks an interest in entomology and ecology. It can also be a fun, interactive way to teach children about responsibility and the natural world.
Who Will Enjoy It
This hobby appeals to:
- Nature lovers and insect enthusiasts
- Science-minded hobbyists
- Families looking for an educational project
- People who enjoy low-maintenance pets with high observational value
It’s especially rewarding for those who are patient and enjoy watching slow, steady progress over weeks and months.
How to Get Started
Start by researching which ant species are legal to keep in your region. Many beginners choose hardy, common species like Lasius niger or Camponotus ants. You can catch a queen during nuptial flights or purchase one from a reputable seller (where legal).
Begin with a simple test tube setup for the queen and her first workers, then move to a formicarium as the colony grows. Provide fresh water, sugar sources (like honey water), and protein (small insects or mealworms). Keep the habitat clean and avoid disturbing the colony too often.
Essential Gear & Materials
- Test Tube Setup – For housing the queen during founding stage.
- Formicarium – Specialized ant farm for growing colonies.
- Outworld Container – For foraging and food placement.
- Water Source – Cotton-stoppered tubes or hydration systems.
- Feeding Tools – Tweezers, pipettes, or small spoons for precise feeding.
- Ant-Safe Barrier – Prevents escapes from the foraging area.
Books & Learning Resources
- The Ants by Bert Hölldobler and E.O. Wilson – Comprehensive scientific reference.
- Ant Keeping and Care by Geoffrey McCallum – Beginner-friendly guide to setup and species care.
- AntsCanada YouTube Channel – Tutorials, species profiles, and habitat-building guides.
- Formiculture.com – Community forum for advice, journals, and troubleshooting.
Tips for Success
- Research your species’ specific needs for temperature, humidity, and diet.
- Avoid mixing different ant species in the same setup — they will fight.
- Keep handling to a minimum to reduce stress on the colony.
- Use an escape barrier and secure lids at all times.
- Track colony growth and feeding schedules in a journal.
Communities & Events
- r/antkeeping – Discussion, photos, and advice for ant-keepers.
- AntsCanada Forum – Q&A, project sharing, and buying/selling colonies (where legal).
- Facebook groups like “Ant Keeping & Ants” – Community tips and ID help.
- Local insect or nature clubs – Occasionally host meetups or swaps.
Related Hobbies
- Beekeeping – Another insect-based hobby with complex social behavior.
- Terrarium Building – Creating small-scale habitats for plants or animals.
- Entomology – The study and collection of insects.
- Herpetology – Caring for reptiles and amphibians, often with similar setups.
- Wildlife Photography – Capturing close-ups of your ants in action.