Cataglyphis hispanica

Name: Cataglyphis hispanica
Origin: Southern Europe, especially Spain (e.g., Barcelona, Andalusia)
Queen: approx. 10 – 12 mm
Workers: approx. 6 – 10 mm
Diet: Carbohydrates (e.g., honey, sugar water), proteins (insects such as flies, crickets, cockroaches)
Humidity:
• Arena: 20 – 40 %
• Nest: 30 – 50 %
Temperature:
• Arena: 26 – 35 °C
• Nest: 28 – 32 °C
Hibernation: Yes, Southern European
Nest type: Sand-loam nests, plaster or 3D nests with dry zones are very suitable
Colony size: approx. 500 – 3,000 workers

Advantages and disadvantages of the species Cataglyphis hispanica

Advantages:
Cataglyphis hispanica is a very fast, diurnal species with fascinating orientation behavior. It is thermophilic, meaning heat-loving, and can be active even at high temperatures. Its striking, nimble behavior makes it particularly exciting for keepers who want to observe movement and hunting behavior.

Disadvantages:

This species requires very warm, dry conditions – too high humidity or low temperatures can be problematic. When stressed, the animals react frantically and flee – suitable for beginners with a steady hand, but not for clumsy care.

Keeping

Cataglyphis hispanica is specialized in heat and dryness.

During the founding phase, a test tube with dry cotton and a small arena is suitable.

Later, a well-ventilated sand-loam or 3D nest with several temperature zones is recommended.

The arena should be spacious (from 20×20 cm) and absolutely escape-proof.

This species is particularly diurnal and hunts live insects very dynamically – ideal for keepers who want to observe during the day.

Feeding

Very active – also hunts live prey:
• Proteins every 2–3 days such as small flies, cockroaches, crickets
• Offer carbohydrates like sugar water or honey permanently – preferably in small drinkers that do not spill. In very warm climates, food intake can increase significantly.