Pogonomyrmex californicus — California Harvester (Polygynous Coastal Concolor)

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Pogonomyrmex californicus — the California harvester ant, coastal concolor form. One of the most rewarding harvesters you can keep, and this coastal concolor variety carries a standout trait: it founds polygynously, so multiple queens cooperate to build a single colony — faster early growth and a more resilient founding stage than single-queen species.

• Choose your colony size: 1, 2, 3, or 4 fresh-caught, mated queens with brood — priced per group below.
• Polygyny: Coastal concolor populations readily accept multiple queens, so you can raise several foundresses together for a faster start.
• Founding: Fully claustral — queens seal themselves away and raise the first workers on their own reserves.
• Diet: Granivorous — a seed mix is the staple, supplemented with insect protein for the brood.
• Native range: California and the arid southwestern U.S.
• Difficulty: Hardy and forgiving — a great step up from a first colony.

Handle with respect: Pogonomyrmex deliver one of the most potent stings in the insect world. Keep the colony secure and handle with care.

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

New to this species? Read our full California Harvester care guide →

Native range (U.S.): California, Arizona, Nevada.