Flash photos bad idea?

[Allcor]

Resently I got a little family of Messor barbarus ants. There are about 20 workers, unfortunately not all made it trough transport.

So with the idea of not bothering them to much I thought making a photo would be better then watch them. I could study the photo as long as I liked. But I started noticing the queen freaks out and runs around when I open the lid. Could it be she is bothered by the camera flash?

[Allcor]

Also, I don't see eggs. Are they suppose to be hibernating?

https://photos.app.goo.gl/AmbJnSc42iRuStx58

[UnrealSparks]

Hi Allcor,

I also have two colonies of Messor Barbarus and I can tell you they hate both vibrations and direct light on the nest, so yes, the queen is surely bothered by that.

About hibernation mine are also slowing down a lot with their brood and I can't see any more eggs. I'll put them in hibernation at the end of this month until late Feb/early Mar.

If you have any more question in general, even regarding this species feel free to ask!

[Allcor]

Thanks for the awnser. Will learn more patience

[UnrealSparks]

No problem! Ant keeping surely requires lots of patience, but don't worry, you can check on them weekly if you want. As long as you don't move the nest often, a quick peek on them will cause no harm.