Terra – XS v3

Terra XS – The Perfect Start for Your Ant Colony

The Terra XS is a compact and thoughtfully designed ant nest, perfectly sized for new and growing ant colonies up to approximately 50 workers. This nest provides a secure and comfortable environment for your ants to thrive from their initial founding stage.

Please note: We strongly recommend allowing your queen to establish her first workers before introducing them to the Terra XS. For founding queens, check out the Founding Terra, and for larger colonies, explore our Terra S and Terra M sizes.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Magnetic Connectivity: Our updated Terra range now boasts integrated magnets, allowing for effortless and rapid connection of additional nests and accessories like our hydrometer. Say goodbye to cumbersome tubing and maximise space in your ant-keeping setup! While designed for tubeless connections, the original ports remain for those who prefer using tubing.
• Consistent Magnet Polarity: All Terra nest sizes feature a consistent magnet polarity system. With the AFS logo facing you, the right and back sides have magnets of one polarity, while the left side has the opposing polarity. This intelligent design enables seamless side-by-side nest expansion and various other connection configurations – perfect for displaying on a shelf!
• Included Hole Blockers: Each Terra XS comes with two hole blockers, each with a different magnetic polarity. This ensures compatibility with all magnetic ports, allowing you to securely seal unused openings. 
• Heating Compatibility: The entire Terra range is designed with a dedicated channel underneath, allowing for the discreet and efficient routing of a heat cable in a straight line when nests are connected as intended.
• Integrated Water Reservoir: A carefully positioned water reservoir in the corner provides essential hydration for your colony. Please exercise extreme caution when adding water to avoid flooding. We advise testing the hydration system for a day or two before introducing your ants to understand the correct amount and frequency of watering.
• V3 Hydration Port Update: The latest V3 update includes a fine mesh lining at the hydration port. This significant improvement drastically reduces the risk of accidental flooding, giving you more time to identify and rectify any overwatering by using cotton to absorb excess moisture. However, careful watering practices are still essential.
• Unassembled for Protection: To ensure your nest arrives in perfect condition, the Terra XS is shipped unassembled with protective films on the acrylic viewing panels. This prevents scratching during transit.
• Natural Sand Interior: The nest features a natural sand interior, providing a realistic and enriching environment for your ants. Due to the nature of the sand, some loose particles may be present in the packaging. We recommend gently cleaning out any loose sand before assembly and removing the protective films.

Assembly is straightforward using the included 4 screws and Allen key.

Learn More:

For detailed instructions and tips on how to best utilise your XS Terra nest, please visit our Terra Nests blog page.

Hydrometer Disclaimer:

Please be aware that the included hydrometer provides an advisory reading of the nest’s internal conditions. For highly precise monitoring, we recommend considering specialised monitoring equipment. The temperature reading may vary depending on the placement of the sensor relative to any heat source. Similarly, the humidity sensor, located on the side of the nest, offers a general indication rather than an absolute measurement.