Camponotus pennsylvanicus
Eastern black carpenter ant: when queens fly and how to start one
Slow to start, but a hardy species that grows into a large colony.
Quick facts
- Flight months:
- April to July
- Conditions:
- Warm evenings, often the day after rain
- Queen size:
- about 16 to 18 mm
- Founding:
- Fully claustral
- Difficulty:
- Beginner
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.