Buckeye Myrmecology has been granted permits by the USDA which allow us to ship these ants to many states in the Continental US. All shipments of Pogonomyrmex badius will include the relevant permit for your state and information on safe handling and disposal of these ants. States that we are allowed to ship Pogonomyrmex badius to are listed below.
STATES AVAILABLE FOR SALE: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
Pogonomyrmex badius for sale, Pogonomyrmex badius for sale
Species Difficulty: Easy, an active and aggressive species.
Max Colony Size, Growth Speed, and Structure: Colonies of Pogonomyrmex badius reach maturity at around 700 workers, and have a maximum size of around 15,000.1, 2 They also grow quickly, capable of reaching approximately 1,000 workers in two years. P. badius colonies are strictly monogynous.
Worker/Queen Information: Workers are approximately 5-7 millimeters long, and have a uniform matte reddish-orange coloration, with a shiny gaster similar to some Aphaenogaster and Myrmica species. Majors are slightly larger, at around 8-10 millimeters long. Queens are large, measuring in at 12-14mm in length. Pogonomyrmex badius is dimorphic, and is the only Pogonomyrmex species in North America to have a major caste!3
Hibernation/Diapause: Although this species can hibernate, it is optional and not recommended. If this species is hibernated, they must be kept well above freezing temperatures, around 50-60f.
Feeding Requirements: Pogonomyrmex badius’ main diet consists of seeds. However, insect proteins such as fruit flies, mealworms, or superworms can also be beneficial. Colonies should be fed at least once a week. Occasionally colonies will accept solid sugars in the form of fruits.
Heating and Humidity: This species requires a heating cable or mat, and must be kept over 80f. Prefers 85-95f. Medium humidity.
Nesting Habits and Escape Prevention: In the wild, P. badius are found in sandy, open forests in the southeastern US. In captivity, they require substrate in their nests due to their inability to climb plastic. Despite this, a barrier of talc or fluon is recommended as this is a stinging species.
Development Time: Approximately 4-6 weeks egg to worker with proper heating.
Other notes: This is a stinging species. Stings are typically mild, but may cause harm in individuals who are allergic. This is not a recommended species to keep if you are allergic to their sting. Pogonomyrmex badius is a very well studied species, with numerous papers that have been written about their population dynamics, nest structure, reproductive habits, and more.
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