We researched dozens of habitats to find the best ant farms, evaluating them on size, cover security, and added features. Our top pick, Uncle Milton Giant Ant Farm, is an updated version of the company’s tried-and-true model. Its panel provides twice the viewing area of other ant farms and double the security with a self-locking device that makes it impossible for ants to escape. Here are the best ant farms for all levels of interest. Made of durable plastic, each kit comes with tubes and ant ports that allow you to connect the farm to other structures. Also included: a STEM learning guide that teaches you about the life of ants and how to help your colony thrive. We especially love the self-locking feature that makes it impossible for ants to escape, but still easy to feed them. Although the company provides a voucher for free ants, previous users recommend finding a local ant supplier, as shipping is dependent on temperatures and can be delayed as a result. Some customers had difficulties initially filling the farm with sand and putting the pieces back together. However, they note that they got the hang of it after a few attempts. Unlike many kits on the market, Insect Lore’s mountain comes with a tube of 25 Harvester ants to get your colony started. Note that this does come with a caveat or two: First, you have to pay close attention to the temperature in your area when ordering. According to the company, temperatures must be between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit to allow for the safe delivery of your ants. Second, the kit cannot be shipped to Oregon, Hawaii, Mexico, and Canada due to restrictions. Each kit comes with a canal tool so you can help kickstart the ants’ tunneling process, as well as a 24-page guidebook that provides car tips and an introduction to ecology. Keep in mind that unlike most kits, sand is not included. Fortunately, only two cups are required, so the added cost should be minimal. The farm is broken into two sections: The first, a half-inch sector where ants can tunnel through the provided sand-and-clay mixture. The second, a 3-inch area where ants can lounge on the provided stones, nest on the moss, or eat from the included water and food dispenser (a feature we especially appreciate). Keep in mind, this farm is smaller than others on the market and is not ideal for those who want to grow out their colony. This structure is smaller than most, so it’s not ideal if you want to house a lot of ants. But what it lacks in width and height it makes up for in depth, giving you an even greater look at your ants at work. Additionally, there’s the AC Outworld, a transparent space for ants to conduct non-tunneling tasks like foraging for food, dumping garbage, and even disposing of their dead. The mesh surface allows for optimal ventilation, while the lid’s deterrent lip keeps the critters inside the farm. Because of the professional-level features, this farm has a much higher price tag and is best suited for people who see ant keeping as a passion rather than a passing fad.
Species
Very few ant farms come with their inhabitants, meaning you will have to buy them separately—or collect yourself. It’s important to know which type of ant is best for the farm you’re purchasing. Most models are suitable for harvester ants, black garden ants, or wood ants. Specialty models, however, may be designed for a specific species, some of which can be hard to obtain.
Cover Security
The last thing you want is ants escaping and infesting your house. Although all ant farms come with lids, some come with extra security measures, like a deterrent lip or security locks. These are especially crucial if you or someone you live with has a bad habit of knocking things over.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Leah Rocketto, a writer who has spent a decade creating lifestyle content. For this article, Leah researched dozens of ant farms, carefully evaluating each habitat’s basic features, extras, and customer reviews. She also utilized expert takes on Ants Canada, one of the leading organizations in ant keeping, myrmecology, ecology, and habitat conservation.
