Mimic Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus mimicus

Meet Myrmecocystus mimicus, an intriguing medium-sized honeypot ant species known for its striking looks. Queens measure approximately 10-12mm and are characterized by a reddish-brown head and thorax, contrasting sharply with their dark black abdomen. The workers, usually around 5-6mm long, appear nearly black overall but may reveal a subtle reddish hue on their heads when viewed at certain angles. A standout feature of this species is its ability to produce repletes—specialized workers that serve as nectar reservoirs, adding a fascinating layer to the colony's behavior and survival tactics.

While Myrmecocystus mimicus is a medium honeypot ant species, it still needs a nest with sufficient vertical ceiling space to support proper replete formation, which is essential for the colony's survival. These ants flourish in environments that provide a humidity gradient and require sand for optimal brood development. Rather than using a sting, they defend themselves by spraying formic acid, which is generally harmless to humans unless it comes into contact with an open cut, potentially causing mild discomfort. Although their behavior is fascinating, they are not ideal for beginners, as they necessitate intermediate to advanced care due to their specific environmental and humidity requirements, along with their fragility, especially during the initial founding stages.

Caring for Myrmecocystus mimicus necessitates meticulous attention to their specific environmental requirements to promote healthy growth and effective replete formation. Their smaller size enables them to remain in their original nest longer, requiring fewer resources, which can be advantageous for keepers with limited space and food supplies. However, this species is best suited for more experienced ant enthusiasts, as honeypot ants can be fragile, particularly during the early founding stages, and improper care can lead to colony failure. It's vital to maintain a temperature range of 80-85°F, with 80°F being the ideal, achievable through a heat mat or cable regulated by a thermostat. Establishing a heat gradient is crucial for regulating their body temperature and fostering brood development. Humidity is also a key factor, so their nest should provide a gradient that allows the ants to select their preferred moisture levels. Myrmecocystus mimicus flourishes on a diet that includes insect protein and sugary liquids like nectar or sugar water. Given their proficiency in climbing, it’s important to conduct regular barrier checks to prevent escapes. Additionally, their nests require vertical space for repletes to develop and sand for proper cocoon construction. Due to their specific needs and sensitivity, Myrmecocystus mimicus can offer a rewarding yet challenging experience for dedicated ant keepers.

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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, 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