Camponotus consobrinus (Banded Sugar Ant)

Camponotus consobrinus (Banded Sugar Ant)
 
Unlike many other species of ants, this species exhibits a very interesting foraging behaviour! Rather than just foraging during the day, these Australian banded sugar ants optimise their feeding opportunities by scouting both day and night along Eucalyptus branches and similar vegetation. 
 
This large colourful species of ant is also known for its tandem foraging behaviour. Rather than foraging in several  branched columns formed by numerous workers, individuals will adopt a system which relies on 'tandem running' whereby a recruit closely follows a main leader. This is why one would only tend to find small clusters of groups at a time.
 
In captivity, this species adapts well to a range of nest environments and are a hardy species to keep. They will accept a range of insects and as their name suggests, will fondly take sugary liquids.
 
Whilst the colony develops, strinkingly large majors will be produced. These rival the size of the queen! 
 
Due to the temperate climate, these ants require a short "hibernation" period of lower temperatures (16-18C) in order to match their natural "biological clock" within and therefore, promote natural behaviour(s).
 
It is illegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild.