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How to Manage an Ant Farm

Ant farms allow you to learn about ant behavior and lifestyle. They are a good idea for people who enjoy science and nature but do not have a lot of space or time for more high-maintenance pets such as arthropods or reptiles. They are also a fun educational experience for children. Ant farms are available at most toy and educational stores. They are easy to keep and require little maintenance.

Things You'll Need

Eyedropper
Forceps

Instructions

- 1
  Dampen the sand before placing it in the ant farm. Use one part water to eight parts sand. This allows the ants to build tunnels.
- 2
  Place the ant farm on a sturdy surface away from sunlight. Put it where it is unlikely to be accidentally bumped or moved.
- 3
  Use an eyedropper to put three or four drops of water into the ant farm every other day to prevent the ants from becoming dehydrated.
- 4
  Drop three pieces of pinhead-size food into the ant farm once a week. Give the ants foods like cake, sugar water, fruit and meat.
- 5
  Use forceps to remove old food particles and waste. This prevents mold from growing in the ant farm.
- 6
  Replace the sand in your ant farm before repopulating it. Ants held in an ant farm typically live one to three months.

Insects & Science