3 replies to this topic

[evanmancini2011]

Okay, I am thinking about making a nest for my pavement and colony which have grown like crazy this past summer and really need a new expansion nest. But I need some help designing it. I want to use my perfect cast in this big-Ish container that I have. I was hoping you can help me design it and help me go step by step to make sure it's ant escape proof and to make sure that it's good for the ants. This is my first DIY nest so I hope it goes well!

Here is the container 

Rubbermaid OS 4.7 Cup/1.1 Liter Brilliance Glass: Microwave, Freezer & Oven Safe Food Storage Container : Target

[ANTdrew]

Search up the DIY guides on here. There are several that will guide you through the process.

[rptraut]

Hello evanmancini2011;

 

I just posted a detailed description of my three Tetramorium colonies which shows how they are housed, with additional chambers added as the colonies grew.   You can view it here      I've also posted construction details for several examples in my Journal and in the Formicarium and Outworld section.   

 

My suggestions for Tetramorium containment are; 

 

Use a container with a tight-fitting lid.    Install a feeding port on top.   Use mineral oil along the top of the walls, a thin film is all that's required, just enough to be slippery, too much and they'll stick things to it, creating a bridge that they'll soon cross.   Tubing should fit into tight holes, with hot glue simply holding it in place, Tetramorium ants can chew through hot glue, given enough time, if there's a space for them to reach it. 

 

Make provision for the connection of other chambers as the colony grows, once the ants are in, it's too late to start drilling holes.   I make these connection points at the time of construction, I usually use a short piece of 3/4 inch tubing, hot glued in place, with a rubber stopper to block it off.   

 

I use 100 mesh stainless steel screen to cover ventilation holes on both sides of a container to provide ventilation.   

 

Have a look at the videos, I'm happy to answer any questions.  

RPT

[evanmancini2011]

Wow that's an impressive colony. Thank you for all the help and ideas!