6 replies to this topic

[RazzCicle767]

Hello, I just ordered a Myrmecocystus mexicanus colony and ordered them a nest and some nectar. I cannot help but notice that the ant nectar on every website, and every brand, is really expensive for even small amounts. Does anybody know of something else that I could get at, like a local supermarket that is cheaper and more accessible? I read somewhere Karo syrup works, but I am a little leery about that one. I am open to any suggestions, including recipes or natural sources.

[Stubyvast]

Oh honestly I just do a little bit of sugar in a bunch of warm water (roughly 1:5 ratio). That or honey, slightly watered down. If you want it to look more like nectar you could try using a tiny amount of yellow die, so long as it's ok for them to drink. My ants love the sugar-water, and it provides plenty of carbohydrates for them. It checks all the boxes, just as much as nectar does, and it's cheaper. Plus, it's more customizable in terms of the ratios, providing more precise sugar levels for your colony's needs. 

[RazzCicle767]

Honeypots can eat sugar water? I thought they had to have nectar.

[RushmoreAnts]

Honeypots can eat sugar water? I thought they had to have nectar.

Nectar is nothing but well marketed sugar-water.

[bmb1bee]

Honeypots can eat sugar water? I thought they had to have nectar.

Sugar water works for most ants, including honeypots. Making it yourself is pretty easy and also cost-efficient, since you can adjust how much to make in one batch. If you want color, just add food coloring.

[RazzCicle767]

okay, I did not know that. Thank you all for your feedback! this will help a lot.

[ANTdrew]

This is a pretty good alternative to Sunburst:
https://www.amazon.c...DF+O5021pAnSA==