7 replies to this topic

[AntsMAN]

I put a few in October 1, a few more November 1, and my Lasius umbratus didn't start until Dec 1.

A few of my queens have made it to the 3 1/2 month mark. I have quite a few new queens in test tubes, I'm thinking 3 1/2 months is good enough for their first hibernation?

The other larger colonies from last year, I'm leaving for another month as they didn't get a proper hibernation last year.

Over all no mass deaths or odd happenings, all seems to be going great. I check on them once a week, to make sure they are hydrated and I feed the larger colonies some honey once a month. My fridge stays at about 8C. The weather in my area has been very mild.

 

With my past troubles with hibernation, I still need some reassurance. Hopefully this year is a success.

 

Edited by AntsMAN, February 10 2017 - 10:05 AM.

[Batspiderfish]

At least wait until the snow is on its way out to get their natural hibernation period.

[AntsMAN]

At least wait until the snow is on its way out to get their natural hibernation period.

 

They are going to be hibernating until the beginning of march, so 2 more months to give them the most natural environment.

[dspdrew]

I do at least four months.

[noebl1]

I do at least four months.

 

I notice at about 2mos (I had a late start)... the Temnothorax are still a bit active at 45F, too warm or let them be?  I noticed the camponotus I found outside were like statues during hibernation, but not quite getting that with my camponotus, Temnothorax or Lasius.  

Edited by noebl1, December 29 2016 - 2:40 PM.

[Crystals]

I find it depends on the species and your local climate.

I have no problem using 3 months for most of my colonies/queens in their first hibernation.

[AntsMAN]

I took all the first year colonies/queens out, 3 months 10 days hibernating. They all seem to have taken it well. I have them on heating cables and connected to small out worlds with food, but none of them have eaten yet. I assume they will take a while to fully come out of hibernation and start foraging. Its still very cold here with snow on the ground, will they know and continue to hibernate? I know some people reverse hibernate, so mine should be fooled into thinking winter is over?

 

The larger second year colonies are getting an extra month.

[MichiganAnts]

It can take the queen up to 2 weeks to become fully awake.