Western Harvester Ants (Pogonomyrmex occidentalis)

General: Pogonomyrmex occidentalis are beautiful, medium-large harvester ants! They are the only species that is deregulated to send to most states in the US. They’re very easy to keep, since their diet is mostly seeds. They require moderate-high heating. They are bad climbers, so the risk of escape with these ants is almost 0! These ants can sting.

Diet: Being harvester ants, this species mostly collects seeds for their diet. However, protein feedings are very beneficial, especially in the early stages of the colony. The occasional cricket or mealworm once or twice a week is best. Make sure the colony constantly has a pile of fresh seeds in the nest.

Temperature: These colonies benefit and thrive from heating, but should still be provided a heating gradient. They can withstand extremely hot temperatures. Some say they do well at 100, but we recommend keeping their hottest points at around 90-95. These ants will grow extremely slowly at room temperature, or not at all.

Diapause: This species does not need to be diapaused at all, but can withstand a period of lowered temperatures if necessary. Do not bring them near freezing. Make sure they still have some seeds during a diapause period.

Growth: Brood development takes around 5-8 weeks. Usually it will take 5-7 weeks, if heated and fed properly. Colonies can grow quickly, reaching the thousands in the first year if heated and fed lots, but can also grow slower if fed less, staying in the dozens or hundreds.

Queen size: 9-11mm

Worker size: 4-8mm

If ants arrive in bad condition, contact us for help. Live arrival is guaranteed.