From Mexico to the the world, in Oaxaca resides a unique ant called the honey ant 🍯, distinguished by its abdomen filled with delectable honey that can be gently extracted and then released back to the ant. Referred to as “chindudis” in Oaxacan villages, these ants belong to the desert regions, particularly found in the Mixteca area during dry spells.
Instead of depositing honey in combs, they develop a sac adjacent to their stomachs that swells as it’s filled with the sugary essence drawn from floral nectars overnight. Known by various names like Chindudis, Tiocondudi, Botijas, Tioko Ntudi (a Mixteco variant meaning honey ant), Vinitos, and Binguinas, their monikers differ across villages.
Simply excavate a bit around these ants during the day to uncover this delightful treat. While their taste is sweet, it encompasses a spectrum of floral flavors. It’s crucial not to harm them; one can extract honey from their abdomens and release them, as they’ll replenish their honey reserves overnight.
