Wheeler's Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus wheeleri

Meet Myrmecocystus wheeleri a total standout among honeypot ants, revered for its it's mesmerizing hues and colors in a honeypot ant! The queens measure in at 13mm and boast a warm blend of coppery-red and amber, with delicate brown accents along the thorax, and a vibrant orange abdomen that signals their regal status. Workers, though smaller at 3 to 6mm, display a similar light amber or soft red tone, giving the colony a harmonious look. What truly sets this species apart are the repletes, whose engorged, nectar-filled abdomens expand dramatically, creating a breathtaking contrast within the nest as they shimmer in golden shades. This species is a testament to the fascinating balance of beauty and survival in the harshest environments.

While Myrmecocystus wheeleri is more resilient than some other honeypot ant species, it is still considered an intermediate to advanced species in terms of care. This species needs a specially designed setup with nests that provide vertical ceiling space to support the growth and formation of their repletes. Their strong climbing abilities mean that regular barrier maintenance is essential to prevent escapes. Transferring these ants to a new nest can be tricky because of the delicate nature of the repletes, which often require careful manual relocation. Although these ants do not sting, they defend themselves using formic acid. Overall, their care requires attention to detail, making them better suited to experienced ant keepers.

To ensure the well-being of Myrmecocystus wheeleri, it’s important to maintain a temperature range between 80-85°F, with an ideal target of 83°F. Using a heat mat or cable controlled by a thermostat will help create the right environment, and a heat gradient is beneficial for the ants to regulate their temperature. For proper colony growth, a balanced diet consisting of both insect protein and nectar (such as sugar water) is necessary. Humidity management is also key, and a well-designed nest should provide a gradient, allowing the ants to find their preferred moisture levels. Since repletes require ample vertical space for expansion, the nest should have high ceilings, and a sandy substrate is essential for cocoon formation. Following these guidelines will create a suitable habitat for Myrmecocystus wheeleri to thrive.

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.

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