How big is Camponotus vagus?

Queen: 15-18 mm — Workers: 7-13 mm.

How long does a Camponotus vagus queen live?

A Camponotus vagus queen lives approximately 20-25 years.

How does Camponotus vagus found a colony?

Foundation type: Claustral — Polygynous: No.

What temperature and humidity does Camponotus vagus require?

Temperature: 22-28°C — Humidity: 40-60%.

Is Camponotus vagus suitable for beginners?

Difficulty level: 3/5 (intermediate).

Camponotus vagus

Scientific name

Camponotus vagus

Origin

Central and southern Europe

Natural climate

Warm temperate

Queen size

15-18 mm

Worker size

7-13 mm

Queen lifespan

20-25 years

Founding

Claustral

Polygynous

Diet

Honeydew, insects, fruit

Hibernation

Yes (4 months)

Humidity

40-60%

Temperature

22-28°C

Max colony size

4,000-8,000

Difficulty

The largest carpenter ant in Europe

Camponotus vagus is the largest of the European Camponotus. Recognisable by its deep black colour, sometimes with golden down on the gaster, it can reach 13 mm for the majors. It’s the ideal species for anyone after a European Camponotus that is both local and spectacular.

Its name (vagus = wandering) refers to its tendency to forage over long distances from the nest, unlike other, more sedentary Camponotus.

Growth and patience

Camponotus vagus shares with its cousins a very slow growth. Allow 4 to 6 months between the mated queen and the first workers. Be patient during founding, don’t disturb the tube.

The 5 commandments of the Camponotus keeper

Patience: growth is slow, especially the 1st year
No stress: don’t disturb the founding tube
Mandatory hibernation: without it, gradual decline
Plenty of sugar: Camponotus is very much a sugar-feeder
A spacious nest in time: plan for a large wooden or plaster nest

Natural habitat and setup

In the wild, Camponotus vagus nests in dead wood, especially pine stumps. Recreate this habitat: a wooden nest (cedar or pine), or a plaster/Ytong nest with natural decorations. The outworld should be spacious so it can forage.

Hibernation and temperatures

Classic hibernation of 4 months at 5-8°C (a cool cellar is ideal). During the active period: 22-28°C with a slight night-time drop. Avoid temperatures above 30°C, which stress the colony.

Habitat

Large modular ant nest

A large multi-chamber nest to support the growth of Camponotus vagus over several years.

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Frequently asked questions

How big is Camponotus vagus?: Queen: 15-18 mm — Workers: 7-13 mm.
How long does a Camponotus vagus queen live?: A Camponotus vagus queen lives approximately 20-25 years.
How does Camponotus vagus found a colony?: Foundation type: Claustral — Polygynous: No.
What does Camponotus vagus eat?: Diet: Honeydew, insects, fruit.
Does Camponotus vagus need a diapause (hibernation)?: Diapause: Yes (4 months).
What temperature and humidity does Camponotus vagus require?: Temperature: 22-28°C — Humidity: 40-60%.
How large does a Camponotus vagus colony grow?: Colony size: 4,000-8,000.
Is Camponotus vagus suitable for beginners?: Difficulty level: 3/5 (intermediate).