Black Legged Carpenter Ant - Camponotus ocreatus (AZ-Color Variant)

Meet the magnificent Camponotus ocreatus, a truly extraordinary carpenter ant species that thrives in desert and arid landscapes. Their stunning golden and tan tones allow them to blend effortlessly into their environment, making them not only adaptable but also visually striking. The queens reach an impressive size of 17-18mm, with minors growing up to 7-10mm, and the majors showcasing their power at 16-18mm. This species commands attention with its bold appearance and faster-than-average growth rate for Camponotus, making them a true standout in the world of Camponotus. For ant enthusiasts, Camponotus ocreatus offers both beauty and a dynamic, semi-fast growing colony that’s sure to turn heads and create excitement in any collection.

Camponotus ocreatus is an ideal species for ant keepers, particularly beginners, due to its low-maintenance care requirements. Unlike many other carpenter ants, Camponotus ocreatus does not need a diapause period, making them much easier to manage. Their relatively fast growth rate makes them appealing to those eager for quicker colony development. Although they don’t sting, they protect themselves by releasing formic acid, which has a mild vinegar scent and is harmless to humans. While the majors have a mild bite, it’s not something to be overly concerned about. However, because of their impressive climbing abilities, it’s essential to keep their enclosure secure to prevent escapes. Additionally, their rapid growth may require you to expand their nest sooner than with other species. Overall, Camponotus ocreatus is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to keep a Camponotus species without the complexity of managing a diapause period every year.

Camponotus ocreatus is a low-maintenance species, particularly due to the fact that they don’t require a diapause period, making their care less demanding than other carpenter ants. To keep the colony thriving, it’s essential to maintain a steady temperature range of 80-85°F, with 85°F being the most ideal. Using a heat mat or cable along with a thermostat can help achieve this, while a heat gradient will allow the ants to regulate their desired temperature for their brood. Their diet should consist of a combination of insect protein and sugary liquids like nectar or sugar water, both of which are critical for their growth. Though they don’t need a specific nest type, it’s important to provide a humidity gradient so they can adjust to the moisture level that suits them best. Additionally, Camponotus ocreatus are skilled climbers, so it’s important to regularly check barriers to prevent any escapes.

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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah

• 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.

For more information on shipping, visit our Shipping Policy Page.

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