Miniature Golden Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus navajo

Meet Myrmecocystus navajo, a true marvel of the ant world and one of the smaller yet most captivating honeypot species. With a radiant golden hue that shines across its queens and workers, this species is as stunning as it is fascinating. The queens, measuring 10-11mm, lead colonies of 4-6mm workers, with the largest among them becoming iconic repletes—living reservoirs whose nectar-filled abdomens glisten like droplets of liquid gold. These repletes are not only crucial for the colony’s survival but also serve as a breathtaking visual feature, making this species an exceptional choice for one's collection. Myrmecocystus navajo is a blend of beauty, biology, and wonder, offering a rewarding experience for both new and seasoned ant enthusiasts looking for a challenge.

Caring for Myrmecocystus navajo is a fulfilling yet intricate experience, best suited for intermediate to advanced ant keepers. These remarkable ants thrive in carefully designed nests with ample vertical space to support their unique repletes, which act as living nectar reservoirs and are central to the colony's survival. Their impressive climbing abilities require consistent barrier maintenance to ensure they remain contained, and relocating the colony demands gentle handling to protect the delicate repletes. Although they use formic acid as a defense mechanism, it is harmless to humans, causing only mild irritation if it contacts an open wound. Successfully keeping Myrmecocystus navajo requires attention to detail and patience, but the reward of observing their stunning beauty and fascinating colony behaviors makes every effort worthwhile.

Caring for Myrmecocystus navajo is an incredibly rewarding journey, as this extraordinary species thrives in a well-crafted environment tailored to its unique needs. To support their growth and vitality, maintain a consistent temperature of 83-90°F, with 85°F as the ideal target, using a heat mat or cable controlled by a thermostat. A heat gradient is essential, allowing the ants to regulate their own temperature naturally. Fuel their energetic colonies with a diet rich in insect protein and sweet nectar, such as sugar water, ensuring every member of the colony flourishes. Humidity management is equally crucial—design their nest with varying moisture levels so they can choose their ideal conditions. High-ceilinged nests are essential to accommodate the stunning repletes as they swell with nectar, while a sandy substrate is vital for cocoon formation and brood development. When these elements are perfectly balanced, you’ll be rewarded with the mesmerizing beauty and dynamic behavior of Myrmecocystus navajo—a golden treasure that’s sure to become a standout in any ant keeper’s collection.






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, 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