Pogonomyrmex occidentalis

Name: Pogonomyrmex occidentalis
Origin: Western USA (prairies, steppes, semi-deserts)
Queen: approx. 10 – 12 mm
Workers: approx. 4 – 10 mm
Food: Mainly seeds (harvester ants), plus proteins (insects) for the brood
Humidity:
• Arena: 30 – 50 %
• Nest: 50 – 60 %
Temperature:
• Arena: 24 – 30 °C
• Nest: 25 – 28 °C
Winter Dormancy: Yes, approx. 2–3 months at 10 – 15 °C
Nest Type: Earth nests or Ytong/plaster nests with dry areas
Colony Size: Several thousand workers

Advantages and Disadvantages of Pogonomyrmex occidentalis

Advantages:
Pogonomyrmex occidentalis is a very robust and fascinating harvester ant species. Their colonies grow vigorously, and majors and soldiers are especially impressive. Their characteristic behavior of collecting and storing seeds makes them an exciting species to observe.

Disadvantages:
The workers have a painful sting – caution is therefore important when handling them. They also need a lot of space and large arenas, as they are very active and prone to escaping.

Care

During the founding phase, a test tube nest with a small feeding area is sufficient. Later, larger Ytong, plaster, or earth nests as well as spacious arenas are required. Pogonomyrmex occidentalis is extremely active and therefore needs plenty of room to roam.

Feeding

As true harvester ants, they feed mainly on seeds of various kinds (millet, grass seeds, chia, etc.). In addition, proteins in the form of small insects (e.g. crickets, flies, roaches) should be offered regularly.