In the heart of Oaxaca, nature offers a sweet and remarkable gift: the honey ant, locally known as chindudis. These tiny creatures carry a delectable surprise within their swollen bellies, which serve as natural “honey pouches” brimming with nectar. What makes this treasure even more extraordinary is that it can be enjoyed without harming the ants themselves.

Unlike bees, which store honey in wax combs, honey ants store their sweet bounty inside their bodies. Their abdomens swell outward as they collect nectar from flowers under the cover of night, transforming into tiny, living reservoirs of honey. Found primarily in the arid regions of Oaxaca, particularly in the Mixteca area, these ants thrive during the dry season when rain does not disrupt their activity.

Harvesting this natural treat is a delicate process. During the day, locals locate and dig where the ants are active, uncovering these unique creatures. With care, the honey is gently extracted from their swollen abdomens, leaving the ants unharmed. Soon, their bellies will fill again, ready to share another round of nature’s sweetness.

The honey itself is a revelation—a harmonious blend of sweetness and complex floral notes, reflective of the diverse flora of the region. For those fortunate enough to experience it, honey ant nectar is not just a delicacy but a testament to the intricate relationship between nature and tradition.