hibernation how and when should i do it for Camponotus herculeanus?. thanks
If they are not as active as before, it's time for hibernation. There are exogenous and endogenous factors which cause hibernation. They will show you.
If you have the opportunity, put them into the fridge. Start with a highest possible temperature, then lower it every day.
Don't feed them, just keep the nest moist. They need to get time to thicken there cytoplasm and hemolymph.
Good luck,
N&&N
do i have to hibernat them or will it be ok if i dont?. thanks
You can try to keep them without, but I definitely recommed not to do so. This species is adapted to cold temperatures and needs hibernation to have a rest. Furthermore, there will be not much to observe. They will just hang out in the nest and only a very few will forage.
thanks n&&n you have helped a lot.
However... do not hibernate them now in the middle of summer... usualy they start end of october time... depedning on the weather of course.