Spider Harvester Ant - Novomessor cockerelli

Meet Novomessor cockerelli, a dynamic powerhouse of the ant world, known for its agility, speed, and almost spider-like movements. This highly insectivorous species dazzles with queens and workers adorned in deep maroon hues, accented by sleek black abdomens and subtle variations of darker and lighter shades. Queens reach an impressive 13mm, while workers, ranging from 6 to 13mm, demonstrate aggressive hunting skills, often taking down live prey with precision and efficiency. Observing their natural foraging behavior is a captivating experience, as their swift, nimble movements make them seem more like tiny predators on the prowl. For ant enthusiasts, Novomessor cockerelli offers a thrilling display of beauty and action, making it an unforgettable addition to any collection.

Novomessor cockerelli is a dynamo species perfect for beginner ant keepers, offering an exciting mix of energy, resilience, and rapid growth. Thriving in hot, desert-like environments with nest temperatures between 85-90°F, these ants stay active and bold, with workers displaying impressive hunting skills as they chase down prey with speed and precision. Their insectivorous diet and energetic foraging make them thrilling to observe, bringing constant action to any setup. While their climbing abilities are moderate, occasional barrier maintenance ensures they stay put. Though their bites are mild and harmless, these ants bring a fierce personality to the colony. With fast development and frequent nest expansions, Novomessor cockerelli guarantees an engaging experience for keepers, making it the ideal species for anyone ready to dive into the dynamic world of ant-keeping.

Novomessor cockerelli thrives in hot environments, with an ideal temperature range of 90-95°F, preferring 93°F, maintained using a heat mat or cable controlled by a thermostat. A heat gradient is beneficial, allowing the ants to regulate their temperature for maximum comfort. Known for their highly insectivorous diet, these ants require a steady supply of insect protein as their primary food source, supplemented with nectar or sugar water to provide extra energy and accelerate growth. While they don’t require a specific type of nest, it’s essential to offer a setup with a humidity gradient, ensuring the colony can select moisture levels that suit their needs. Although Novomessor cockerelli possesses only moderate climbing ability, periodic barrier maintenance is recommended to prevent potential escapes. They are not aggressive toward humans but can deliver mild bites if handled, though the bites are not painful. With rapid growth and high activity levels, keepers should anticipate frequent nest expansions. Their agility, fast development, and dynamic hunting behaviors make Novomessor cockerelli an exciting species for ant enthusiasts of all levels, offering a rewarding and engaging ant-keeping experience.

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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas

• 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