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[Tyr_Ants]

For context: This queen was collected in mid-March near the Santa Ana Mountain range. Below are some early photos:




Currently, the queen has successfully established her colony and has begun producing nanitic workers. When I checked two days ago, there was only one worker present; that number has since tripled, with around four workers e-closing.






In my opinion, Myrmecocystus wheeleri is one of the more underrated honeypot ant species, as I rarely see them kept in captivity. I really admire their striking orange and black coloration, as well as their growth rate. Overall, while still early in development, this colony is showing decent growth. I look forward to observing their progress over the coming months .


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Edited by Tyr_Ants, August 30 2025 - 10:24 PM.

[Temno]

update???

[Tyr_Ants]

Update:

Around May 17, I transferred my Myrmecocystus wheeleri colony into a gypsum cement nest, since it mimics the natural conditions of their native environment.



As of June 5th, my colony has grown significantly and is approaching 20 workers. They’re fascinating to watch—especially the workers, who move incredibly fast. I’ve been feeding them a diet of mealworms, fruit flies and sugar water. Interestingly, the queen’s egg production has noticeably decreased compared to her founding stage. She still looks and acts healthy, but it’s just something I’ve observed.



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