Pheidole xerophila (Desert Big-Headed Ant)

Pheidole xerophila — a hardy desert big-headed ant whose name means “dry-loving.” Fast-growing and endlessly busy, with classic big-headed majors cracking seeds alongside swarms of tiny minors.

• You'll receive: a fresh-caught, fully-claustral queen with brood.
• Founding: Fully claustral — she raises her first workers sealed away.
• Diet: Seeds (granivore) plus insect protein.
• Castes: Tiny minors and big-headed majors.
• Range: Arid Southwest of the U.S.
• Difficulty: Beginner–Intermediate — hardy and quick to grow.

New to big-headed ants? Read our Pheidole xerophila care guide →

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

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