Formica rufa in Germany
ProhibitedGoverning Law
Bundesnaturschutzgesetz (BNatSchG) § 39, § 44 + Bundesartenschutzverordnung (BArtSchV)
View official text ↗Regulatory Authority
Bundesamt für Naturschutz (BfN)
How to Get a Permit in Germany
No permit available for private keeping. All mound-building red wood ants (Formica rufa group) are specially protected. Their nests, brood, and adults may not be taken from nature, killed, possessed, or marketed.
Additional Notes
Formica rufa, F. polyctena, F. pratensis, F. lugubris, and F. aquilonia are all covered. F. sanguinea is excluded. Prohibition per ordinance of 16 February 2005 (BGBl. I p. 258).
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most recent regulatory changes. Always verify with Bundesamt für Naturschutz (BfN) before purchasing, shipping, or keeping live ants. Never release ants into the environment — euthanise by placing in a freezer for 24+ hours.