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These are Rough Harvester Ants, native to the arid desert regions of the Southwestern United States and Mexico. They are robust, striking ants known for their heavy coarse sculpting and deep reddish-brown to dark coloration. Like other desert harvesters, they are endlessly fascinating to observe as they collect, crack, and store seeds in intricate underground chambers.
Temperament: Bold, highly active, and quick to defend their territory if disturbed, displaying a confident and energetic foraging style.
Max colony size: Large colonies that can reach 5,000 to 10,000 workers at full, mature scale.
Egg to worker speed: Fast when kept at proper high temperatures, taking about 4 to 6 weeks from egg to adult worker.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. They are exceptionally hardy and simple to feed, but require consistent high heat and proper respect for their potent sting.
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CARE GUIDE.
On arrival: Leave her alone in a dark, quiet environment. They are fully claustral and do not require any food or feeding until their very first workers hatch.
Food: Once workers arrive, provide a staple diet of small seeds such as bluegrass, dandelion, or chia. Supplement their diet with small, pre-killed insects like fruit flies or cricket parts for protein, and ensure they have continuous access to fresh water.
Temp: High heat is critical for proper development. Keep the setup warm, ideally around 28°C–33°C (82°F–91°F), ensuring a clear temperature gradient across the nest so they can regulate their environment.
Hibernation: Requires a mild winter rest period. Provide a brief slowdown period around 15°C (59°F) for 2 to 3 months from December to February.
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LIVE GUARANTEE.
LIVE BEE ONLY.
