Camponotus herculeanus (Hercules Carpenter Ant) is one of Canada’s largest native ant species, found across boreal and mixed forests from coast to coast. Known for its impressive size and deep reddish-brown and black coloration, this species nests in decayed or softened wood and plays an important role in forest ecosystems.
Queens typically measure 14–18 mm, with workers ranging from 6–13 mm, making them highly visible and fascinating to observe. Colonies grow slowly but live for many years, often developing into large, long-lived nests with distinct worker castes and a stable social structure.
In captivity, C. herculeanus does best in cool-to-moderate conditions with access to both dry and slightly humid micro-zones. While this species is naturally adapted to cooler climates, providing a gentle heat gradient (e.g., a warm spot near one end of the nest) can support brood development during active months. Avoid full-nest heating, as overexposure may cause stress. They readily accept sugars and protein, making them manageable for patient beginners and rewarding for experienced keepers.
C. herculeanus adapts well to test tube setups during founding stages and later to larger formicaria. Although Camponotus species can regulate humidity within their nest to some extent, they require a gradient of moisture levels to do so effectively. Avoid overwatering — providing only partial hydration allows the ants to add humidity where needed, while still being able to dry out areas through airflow and nest behavior.
Queens start new nests individually, with colonies typically monogynous and producing sexuals in late summer that overwinter in the natal nest before swarming in spring
All photos in our gallery were taken in-house with our professional macro setup to highlight the fine details of each specimen.
Every queen (or starter colony) ships in a pre-assembled test-tube setup. Components are listed in the “Included Queen Test Tube Setup” info section. For the full breakdown of all options and why we use them, see "Test Tube Components Explained".
Live ants ONLY SHIP within CANADA.
Camponotus Herculeanus (Hercules Carpenter Ant)
Scientific Name: Camponotus herculeanus
Common Name: Hercules Carpenter Ant
Geographical Distribution: Boreal and mountainous forests across Canada, Northern Eurasia, parts of North America
Queen Size: ~15 mm; drones ~7–8 mm
Worker Size / Castes: Display caste polymorphism (majors, intermediates, minors)
Natural Habitat: Decayed or living wood (logs, stumps), with satellite colonies in drier areas.
Queen Founding Method: Independent (solitary) founding is the norm, and colonies are typically monogynous.
Mating Flight Period: Winged reproductives or alates are reared late summer and overwinter in the colony. Nuptial flights typically occur from late May through early July, similar to many Camponotus species they are known to fly at dusk or into the early night.
Development Time (Egg → Worker): ~2 months under favorable conditions.
Humidity Preference: Requires a moisture gradient; overwatering impedes self‑regulation. This species regulates nest microclimate through behavior, so it's best to avoid saturation (too much water).
Temperature & Heat Gradient: Provide a mild heat gradient rather than full-nest heating. Ants regulate nest temperature behaviorally. A small, localized heat zone allows them to self-select optimal conditions, mimicking natural thermal patterns.
Food Preferences: Offer diluted honey or sugar water, maple syrup, nectar mixes, or fruits like apple for carbohydrates. For protein, use pre-killed insects (e.g., mealworms, crickets, flies). Avoid oily or fatty foods. (Inferred from Camponotus pennsylvanicus studies).
Feeding Schedule: Offer protein 2–3 times per week during growth phases, and reduce during diapause. Provide carbohydrate sources continuously and refresh several times weekly. Remove uneaten protein within 24–48 hours to prevent mold.
Hibernation (Diapause): C. herculeanus requires a true winter diapause. Chill the colony for 3–4 months at ~6°C, ideally from November to February. Stop feeding 1-2 weeks prior. Diapause is critical and absolutely required for brood development and long-term colony health.
Escape Barrier Methods:
Fluon (PTFE), talcum powder mixed with isopropyl alcohol, and Vaseline (petroleum jelly) are all commonly used. Apply a smooth barrier along the upper inner walls of the outworld in a circular motion, covering several centimetres.-
Fluon is a highly effective escape barrier once fully dried, works best in low humidity environments.
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Talcum + alcohol is an affordable and effective alternative but must be applied in a well-ventilated space and allowed to dry completely, as alcohol fumes can be dangerous to ants.
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Vaseline is among the safest options. Many ants avoid it over time, though some may eventually try bridging it with debris. It's also useful for sealing fine gaps or lubricating moving parts in enclosure hardware.
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