A keeper asked us

Can I leave my ants alone for a week?

I'm going away for a week. Will my colony be okay, and what should I set up before I leave?

Answered by Nolan, Director of Live Collections & Partner · October 29, 2026 at 5:58 PM CDT


Yes, a healthy colony will be fine for a week. Ants cope with being left alone far better than most keepers expect!

Before you leave, top up their water and carbohydrate source. Fresh Liquid Feeders of each should help get your colonies through the week. If you provide them water with a test tube, ensure there's still plenty of water left in it. Give them protein right before you leave; you can worry about cleaning up the leftovers when you return. Lastly, make sure that they have ample seeds if they're a seed-eating species.

If you use a heat cable, make sure it's on a thermostat. This ensures your ants won't be cooked while you're gone if the ambient temperature increases.

For claustral founding queens, they need nothing from you, so they're totally fine for a week without your care.

Mentioned in this answer: Liquid Feeder

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