Camponotus vicinus
Temperature
20–28 °C
Humidity
50–70%
Colony size
2,000–10,000
Queen size
14–17 mm
Worker size
6–13 mm
Hibernation temp
8 °C
Diet
Care Guide
Camponotus vicinus, commonly known as the western carpenter ant, is a striking and robust species native to western North America. These ants demonstrate noticeable polymorphism, with workers ranging from small minors around 6 mm to large majors measuring up to 13 mm. The queen, the largest member of the colony, can reach 14–17 mm and is typically dark brown to black with subtle reddish highlights. Majors are characterized by their powerful mandibles and larger heads, often used for defending the nest and processing larger food items. Colonies can grow from a few thousand up to ten thousand workers, creating a bustling yet manageable society for an intermediate keeper.
Their diet is varied and protein‑heavy. Camponotus vicinus forages mainly at night, scavenging for insects and collecting honeydew from aphids. In captivity, they thrive on a mix of sugar water or honey water for energy and insect prey such as crickets, mealworms, or fruit flies for growth. They also appreciate occasional protein jellies. Unlike seed‑eating species, these ants need a steady supply of live or frozen protein to support their brood.
Care difficulty
Keeping Camponotus vicinus is suited to intermediate ant keepers. They are hardy once established, but their specific temperature and humidity requirements, along with a mandatory hibernation period, demand consistent attention. The claustral founding phase is straightforward: the queen seals herself in a dark chamber and raises her first workers solely on her stored reserves. However, young colonies are sensitive to disturbance and dehydration, so patience is key.
Housing
These ants require a formicarium with both a dry nest area and a connected outworld for foraging. Humidity should be kept between 50 and 70 percent, with one side of the nest slightly moister to allow workers to choose their preferred microclimate. Good ventilation prevents mold, especially since the ants tend to accumulate waste in designated corners. A temperature gradient from 20°C to 28°C is ideal, with the warmest spot near the heating cable or mat. Importantly, Camponotus vicinus needs a genuine winter diapause. From late autumn through winter, reduce the temperature gradually to around 8°C for three to four months. Without this hibernation, the queen may stop laying eggs and the colony’s long‑term health declines. During hibernation, keep the nest slightly drier but ensure the ants still have access to water.
First days after purchase
Upon receiving your Camponotus vicinus colony, place the test tube or formicarium in a dark, quiet location and let the ants settle for at least 24 hours. Avoid bright lights and vibrations. Check that the water reservoir is full and that the ants have a small drop of sugar water and a tiny piece of protein nearby—they may be stressed and need easy access to nutrition. Observe from a distance: if the queen is tending eggs or larvae, leave her undisturbed. Over the first week, gradually introduce a small outworld so the workers can explore and forage. With a steady environment and patience, your colony will soon reveal the fascinating nocturnal activity and strong wood‑chewing instincts that make Camponotus vicinus such a rewarding species to keep.