Formica Fusca ( First Colony Ever)

[Josh]

This is my first colony ever, so I hope things go well with it


9th, July

On the 8th, while he was away at The Lake District, Andrew ( Theantkeeper) found a Formica Fusca queen right outside on the path near his caravan. He said if he found one he would get one to me, and he did. So thanks to him.
Earlier today, I placed the queen in a Ant world set up, and placed her in a dark area for her to settle in. She still seems to be settling in as she's still running around the top of the Ant world set up. I do hope she gets settled soon. And I don't really have anything else to add to that.. 0.o
I will update my journal daily, feel free to post any suggestions you may have to help me out

[Josh]

10th ,July

Nothing much to add really. Just that about half an hour ago, I looked into my Ant world set up, and noticed I couldn't see the Queen, anywhere. I looked around, still nothing, I opened it all up, still nothing, turns out she was curled in a small ball, and it was difficult to see her, she such a sly thing... But it seems she still trying to settle in, which again I hope she does soon.
I have to be a little more patient, and stop worrying all the time..

[Josh]

Saturday 4th,

Been a while since I have updated my journal, but there really has been nothing to report. I placed the queen in a test tube, for her to start of there instead, and still she has not dug or anything.. Is there something I am doing wrong... Need some help here... Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.

[wedge]

I don't know much about British ants so I won't advise you, but it's great to hear of your experiences.

[Jaikaiman]

Try using a piece of stick to create a starter tunnel for the queen to go into within your ant farm. Then cover her up and leave her. Check on her maybe once a day. It may be possible that you have the wrong kind of material in your farm? I believe they like sandy soil, but could be wrong. Anyway, its worked for every queen I've ever had. They always use the starter tunnel I make for them. It also conserves a lot of their energy.