Ant life through the winter

One year in the life of an ant


Camponotus japonicus ants open the nest in early April to start their activity. In early summer, a male and a female are mated. After November, they enter their winter hibernation.

Opening of the nest in April The mating flight in May The mated female lays eggs The larvae grow in June The workers are actively carrying out their tasks in August The ants pass through the winter from November to March


When spring comes, the nest is opened

When spring comes, the surface of the soil becomes warm. When this warmth spreads to the area where the ants are located, they open the entrance of the nest abruptly and begin to go outside. In Tokyo, this is observed around early April.

Formica japonica ants opening the nest

Soil carried outside the nest entrance
of Camponotus japonicus