Giant California Carpenter Ant - Camponotus CA-02

Meet Camponotus CA-02 currently scientifically undescribed, it is located in California and is renowned for being the biggest ant species both in California and one of the largest nationwide. These ants are easily identified by their distinctive appearance, where the brilliant orange-brown gasters of the queens contrast dramatically with their black heads and thoraxes. This species, which is 18–22 mm long, is divided into two worker castes. The larger majors, which may grow up to 18mm, have prominent black heads and muscular mandibles, while the smaller workers, known as minors, are uniformly brown or golden. For those ant fans seeking an eye-catching and captivating species to examine, Camponotus CA-02 is a popular choice because of their size, remarkable appearance, and behavior.

Camponotus CA-02 is a hardy and resilient carpenter ant species, though like other Camponotus, they experience slow growth and require a period of diapause during colder months. Their care can be more challenging due to their impressive climbing abilities and their tendency to degrade fluon barriers faster than other species, making containment more demanding. Known for their love of nectar, these ants often have visibly swollen gasters after feeding, with the color of the nectar showing through. In addition to nectar, they need regular insect protein to support the colony’s development.

Camponotus CA-02 is best suited for intermediate to experienced ant keepers who are prepared to maintain a higher level of care and barrier management. It is important to note their majors, with their strong mandibles, are capable of delivering a painful bite if handled improperly. Whilst they don't sting; instead, they defend themselves by spraying formic acid, which has a vinegar-like scent but is harmless to humans unless sprayed within a cut which then can cause some form of mild discomfort. Their striking appearance and robust nature make them a rewarding choice, but without proper containment efforts and a proper form of diapause, they can be a bit difficult to manage for those not ready for the challenge.

To properly care for Camponotus CA-02, it’s important to maintain a temperature range of 80-85°F, with 80°F being the preferred target. This can be easily achieved by using a heat cable or heat mat alongside a thermostat to ensure consistency. Providing a heat gradient is beneficial, allowing the ants to regulate their body temperature as needed. In terms of diet, Camponotus CA-02 thrives on a combination of insect protein and sugary liquids like nectar or sugar water, which are essential for their growth and overall health. When it comes to humidity, a well-designed nest should feature a gradient, giving the ants the option to choose the humidity level that best suits their needs. While no specific type of nest is required, proper containment is critical due to their excellent climbing abilities, which means frequent barrier maintenance is necessary to prevent escapes. Finally, Camponotus CA-02 requires a diapause period during the winter months for continued colony growth. During this time, the temperature should be lowered to around 50-65°F for about three months to mimic their natural seasonal cycle. With the right care, these ants will thrive, but they are best suited for ant keepers prepared for the challenges of advanced care and barrier management.

For more information on how to take care of your ant, visit our Care Guides.

States available for purchase:

California

• Shipping Days: We dispatch live ant orders from Monday to Wednesday to avoid weekend delays, ensuring your ants receive prompt and safe delivery.
• Express Delivery Services: All live ant orders are sent via reliable express carriers that guarantee delivery within 1-3 business days.
• Eligible Delivery Areas: We ship only to regions where overnight or two-day shipping options are available. This minimizes transit time and reduces stress on the ants.
• Specialized Packaging: Our packaging includes insulated materials, along with heat or cold packs as necessary, to maintain a stable and comfortable environment for the ants during transit.

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Live Arrival Guarantee: If your ants arrive dead, we will provide a refund or replacement as long as you notify us within 24 hours of receiving them and provide clear photos showing their condition. Your satisfaction and the well-being of your ants are our top priority!

Two-Week Survival Window: If your colony doesn't thrive within two weeks despite following our care instructions, we'll replace it with a product of equal value.

Please note: Shipping costs for replacements are the responsibility of the buyer