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Aphaenogaster rudis

Winnow ant: when queens fly and how to start one

Listed as fully or semi-claustral; offer food while she founds.

Quick facts

Flight months:
June to August
Conditions:
Warm days in spring
Queen size:
about 7 to 8 mm
Founding:
Fully or semi-claustral
Difficulty:
Intermediate

Months and ranges are approximate and change with the year and the weather.

Housing

Start her in a test tube. The Scout, $24, takes a 16 mm tube as it is, and the Founder, $42, is the next room. Not sure which size? Read what size formicarium.

American Ant does not sell live ants. Check state and local rules before catching or keeping any ant.

Where it is found

All states and species · How to catch a queen