Camponotus ocreatus — Starter Colony

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Camponotus ocreatus — a handsome bicolored carpenter ant of the western deserts, with a rich reddish body and dark gaster. Large, charismatic, and a standout in any collection. Now shipped as a starter colony, so the slow Camponotus founding stage is already behind you.

• You'll receive: a starter colony — one mated queen with 1–5 workers and brood.
• Stage: Post-founding — workers already present and tending brood, so the colony grows from day one.
• Diet: Sugars and nectar plus insect protein.
• Range: Western U.S. deserts and woodlands.
• Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate.
• Note: No sting (can bite); a strong climber — keep containment in mind.

New here? Read our Camponotus ocreatus care guide →

From their chamber to your door — shipped with care by Royal Chamber Ants.

Native range (U.S.): Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado.