{"title":"Virginia","description":"\u003cp\u003eVirginia's ecological range , from Chesapeake Bay tidewaters and Shenandoah Valley farmland to the Blue Ridge Highlands , supports a rich diversity of native ant species, including \u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/products\/black-carpenter-ant-Camponotus-pennsylvanicus\"\u003eCamponotus pennsylvanicus\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e (Black \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/collections\/carpenter-ants\"\u003ecarpenter ant\u003c\/a\u003e), \u003cem\u003ePonera pennsylvanica\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eAphaenogaster fulva\u003c\/em\u003e. The state's mid-Atlantic climate blends warm summers with mild winters, supporting long and productive colony activity cycles. American Ant Store ships live, quality ant colonies to Virginia enthusiasts, from Virginia Beach to the Blue Ridge Mountains. All orders are backed by our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/americanantstore.com\/pages\/ant-guard\"\u003e5-day live arrival guarantee\u003c\/a\u003e. View our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/americanantstore.com\/policies\/shipping-policy\"\u003eshipping policy\u003c\/a\u003e for details.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"camponotus-castaneus","title":"Ruby Chestnut Carpenter Ant (Camponotus castaneus)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"MW5IWV\" data-motion-part=\"BG_LAYER\" data-hook=\"bgLayers\" id=\"bgLayers_comp-kxrxckz91\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"15334\" data-end=\"15388\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"15337\" data-end=\"15386\"\u003eCamponotus castaneus (Chestnut Carpenter Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"15390\" data-end=\"15640\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"15390\" data-end=\"15412\"\u003eCamponotus castaneus\u003c\/em\u003e, the Chestnut Carpenter Ant, is one of the most elegant and gentle ant species found in the eastern United States. Recognized for their deep red coloration and calm behavior, they are ideal for educational and display setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"15642\" data-end=\"15940\"\u003eColonies of \u003cem data-start=\"15654\" data-end=\"15668\"\u003eC. castaneus\u003c\/em\u003e grow slowly but steadily, forming long-lived, structured societies that reflect the best of carpenter ant organization. Their large queens and polymorphic workers add visual diversity, while their patience-testing growth pace makes them rewarding for dedicated keepers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"15942\" data-end=\"16106\"\u003eWhen provided with seasonal cycles including a cool winter diapause. These ants flourish, forming impressive colonies that showcase natural carpenter ant behavior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"16108\" data-end=\"16111\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"16113\" data-end=\"16135\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16117\" data-end=\"16133\"\u003eSpecies Info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16137\" data-end=\"16255\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16137\" data-end=\"16149\"\u003eGeneral:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"16149\" data-end=\"16152\"\u003eLarge, reddish carpenter ant native to temperate forests; known for calm colonies and long lifespans.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16257\" data-end=\"16349\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16257\" data-end=\"16266\"\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"16266\" data-end=\"16269\"\u003eProvide \u003cstrong data-start=\"16277\" data-end=\"16301\"\u003ebyFormica Ant Nectar\u003c\/strong\u003e and protein from insects or soft-bodied prey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16351\" data-end=\"16445\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16351\" data-end=\"16367\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"16367\" data-end=\"16370\"\u003eMaintain \u003cstrong data-start=\"16379\" data-end=\"16390\"\u003e78–85°F\u003c\/strong\u003e during the active season; cooler during winter rest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16447\" data-end=\"16509\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16447\" data-end=\"16456\"\u003eNest:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"16456\" data-end=\"16459\"\u003eWood-based or acrylic setups with mild humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16511\" data-end=\"16564\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16511\" data-end=\"16524\"\u003eDiapause:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"16524\" data-end=\"16527\"\u003eYes—essential for long-term health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16566\" data-end=\"16645\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16566\" data-end=\"16577\"\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"16577\" data-end=\"16580\"\u003eSlow and steady; develops large, long-lived colonies over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16647\" data-end=\"16699\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16647\" data-end=\"16662\"\u003eQueen size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 17–20 mm  \u003cstrong data-start=\"16673\" data-end=\"16689\"\u003eWorker size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7–12 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"16701\" data-end=\"16704\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"16706\" data-end=\"16942\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16706\" data-end=\"16715\"\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e All ants for sale have a range where the species is native. Always check your local regulations before purchasing live ants.\u003cbr data-start=\"16840\" data-end=\"16843\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"16843\" data-end=\"16861\"\u003eStates Native:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLearn more:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/pages\/camponotus-care-guide\"\u003eCarpenter Ant Care Guide\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/pages\/ant-feeding-guide\"\u003eAnt Feeding Guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American Ant Store","offers":[{"title":"1 queen","offer_id":46878391959810,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen 5-10 workers","offer_id":46878391992578,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0693\/7024\/9474\/files\/CamponotusCastaneusQueen.jpg?v=1764619376"},{"product_id":"camponotus-discolor","title":"Bicolor Carpenter Ant (Camponotus discolor)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"MW5IWV\" data-motion-part=\"BG_LAYER\" data-hook=\"bgLayers\" id=\"bgLayers_comp-kxrxckz91\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"313\" data-end=\"365\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"316\" data-end=\"363\"\u003eCamponotus discolor (Bicolor Carpenter Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"855\"\u003e\u003cem data-start=\"367\" data-end=\"388\"\u003eCamponotus discolor\u003c\/em\u003e, commonly called the Bicolor Carpenter Ant, is a striking and intelligent species found throughout parts of the southeastern and central United States. Known for its bold contrast between dark head and gaster with a rich reddish-brown thorax, \u003cem data-start=\"632\" data-end=\"645\"\u003eC. discolor\u003c\/em\u003e stands out as one of the most visually distinct carpenter ants in North America. Calm, adaptable, and long-lived, these ants are perfect for keepers seeking a large, active species that thrives in captivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"857\" data-end=\"1267\"\u003eThis species is highly social and easy to observe thanks to its large worker size and steady foraging habits. Colonies of \u003cem data-start=\"979\" data-end=\"1000\"\u003eCamponotus discolor\u003c\/em\u003e develop slowly at first but become remarkably organized once established, often producing large polymorphic worker populations with clear caste differentiation. They are curious, non-aggressive, and well-suited for both display formicariums and educational setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1269\" data-end=\"1659\"\u003eIn their natural range, \u003cem data-start=\"1293\" data-end=\"1306\"\u003eC. discolor\u003c\/em\u003e inhabits decaying wood and forest debris, favoring warm, humid microclimates. In captivity, they do best in moderately humid formicaria with access to consistent warmth and sugar-based nutrition. As a beginner-to-intermediate species, \u003cem data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1563\"\u003eCamponotus discolor\u003c\/em\u003e offers both ease of care and a dynamic colony structure that grows more impressive over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1664\"\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1666\" data-end=\"1688\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1670\" data-end=\"1686\"\u003eSpecies Info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1690\" data-end=\"1918\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1690\" data-end=\"1702\"\u003eGeneral:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1702\" data-end=\"1705\"\u003eA large, bicolored carpenter ant species known for its striking red-and-black pattern and calm behavior. Colonies grow slowly at first but mature into large, long-lived societies with well-defined worker castes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1920\" data-end=\"2125\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1920\" data-end=\"1929\"\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1929\" data-end=\"1932\"\u003eProvide constant access to \u003cstrong data-start=\"1959\" data-end=\"1983\"\u003ebyFormica Ant Nectar\u003c\/strong\u003e or other sugar solutions for energy, along with insect protein such as crickets, fruit flies, or mealworms for brood and queen nourishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2127\" data-end=\"2294\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2127\" data-end=\"2143\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2143\" data-end=\"2146\"\u003eMaintain \u003cstrong data-start=\"2155\" data-end=\"2166\"\u003e78–85°F\u003c\/strong\u003e during the active season. Provide a slight temperature gradient and moderate humidity in brood areas for healthy development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2296\" data-end=\"2428\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2296\" data-end=\"2305\"\u003eNest:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2305\" data-end=\"2308\"\u003eWood-based nests or cement style formicaria are ideal, with moderate humidity and dry, open outworlds for foraging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2558\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2430\" data-end=\"2443\"\u003eDiapause:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2443\" data-end=\"2446\"\u003eYes, \u003cem data-start=\"2452\" data-end=\"2465\"\u003eC. discolor\u003c\/em\u003e benefits from a cool winter diapause lasting 2–3 months to ensure long-term colony health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2560\" data-end=\"2690\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2560\" data-end=\"2571\"\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2571\" data-end=\"2574\"\u003eSlow to moderate. Colonies typically take 1–2 years to reach large populations but become very stable once mature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2692\" data-end=\"2744\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2692\" data-end=\"2707\"\u003eQueen size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10-12mm  \u003cstrong data-start=\"2718\" data-end=\"2734\"\u003eWorker size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4–8 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2746\" data-end=\"2749\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2751\" data-end=\"3008\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2751\" data-end=\"2760\"\u003eNote:\u003c\/strong\u003e All ants for sale have a range where the species is native. Always check your local regulations before purchasing live ants.\u003cbr data-start=\"2885\" data-end=\"2888\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2888\" data-end=\"2906\"\u003eStates Native:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLearn more:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/pages\/camponotus-care-guide\"\u003eCarpenter Ant Care Guide\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/pages\/ant-feeding-guide\"\u003eAnt Feeding Guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American Ant Store","offers":[{"title":"1 queen","offer_id":46878395728130,"sku":null,"price":42.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen 5-10 workers","offer_id":46878395760898,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0693\/7024\/9474\/files\/CamponotusDiscolorQueen.jpg?v=1764621998"},{"product_id":"black-carpenter-ant-camponotus-pennsylvanicus","title":"Black Carpenter Ant (Camponotus pennsylvanicus)","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"MW5IWV\" data-motion-part=\"BG_LAYER\" data-hook=\"bgLayers\" id=\"bgLayers_comp-kxrxckz91\"\u003e\n\u003ch1 data-start=\"351\" data-end=\"407\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"356\" data-end=\"407\"\u003eCamponotus pennsylvanicus (Black Carpenter Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"409\" data-end=\"791\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"409\" data-end=\"438\"\u003eCamponotus pennsylvanicus\u003c\/strong\u003e, commonly known as the Black Carpenter Ant, is one of the largest and most iconic ant species found throughout the eastern United States. Renowned for their glossy jet-black coloration, impressive worker size range, and highly structured colony behavior, \u003cem data-start=\"694\" data-end=\"713\"\u003eC. pennsylvanicus\u003c\/em\u003e has long been a favorite among ant keepers, educators, and researchers alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"793\" data-end=\"1184\"\u003eThis species is calm, hardy, and exceptionally long-lived. Colonies grow slowly at first—typical for Camponotus—but once established, they develop into large, organized societies with clear caste differentiation. Their large major workers and powerful mandibles make them fascinating to observe, while their consistent foraging patterns provide excellent visibility for display formicariums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1186\" data-end=\"1556\"\u003eIn nature, \u003cem data-start=\"1197\" data-end=\"1216\"\u003eC. pennsylvanicus\u003c\/em\u003e nests in decaying logs, hollow trees, and wooden debris across temperate forests. In captivity, they thrive when keepers provide moderate humidity, gentle warmth, and a proper seasonal cycle including winter diapause. With patience and consistent care, this species becomes one of the most rewarding and educational carpenter ants to keep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1558\" data-end=\"1561\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1563\" data-end=\"1582\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1566\" data-end=\"1582\"\u003eSpecies Info\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1743\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1596\"\u003eGeneral:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1596\" data-end=\"1599\"\u003eA large, glossy black carpenter ant native to eastern hardwood forests. Known for calm colonies, long lifespans, and impressive caste structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1745\" data-end=\"1884\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1745\" data-end=\"1754\"\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1754\" data-end=\"1757\"\u003eOffer \u003cstrong data-start=\"1763\" data-end=\"1787\"\u003ebyFormica Ant Nectar\u003c\/strong\u003e, sugar solutions, and protein from insects such as crickets, mealworms, roaches, or fruit flies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1886\" data-end=\"2007\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1886\" data-end=\"1902\"\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1902\" data-end=\"1905\"\u003eMaintain \u003cstrong data-start=\"1914\" data-end=\"1925\"\u003e74–82°F\u003c\/strong\u003e during the active season. Cooler temperatures are recommended during winter rest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2009\" data-end=\"2132\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2009\" data-end=\"2018\"\u003eNest:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2018\" data-end=\"2021\"\u003eIdeal in \u003cstrong data-start=\"2030\" data-end=\"2081\"\u003ewood-based nests, acrylic setups, or formicaria\u003c\/strong\u003e with moderate humidity and naturalistic outworlds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2134\" data-end=\"2235\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2134\" data-end=\"2147\"\u003eDiapause:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2147\" data-end=\"2150\"\u003eYes,\u003cstrong data-start=\"2156\" data-end=\"2169\"\u003eessential\u003c\/strong\u003e for long-term colony health. Provide a cool period of 2–3 months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2237\" data-end=\"2348\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2237\" data-end=\"2248\"\u003eGrowth:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2248\" data-end=\"2251\"\u003eSlow but steady. Once established, colonies can grow very large and remain stable for many years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2350\" data-end=\"2402\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2350\" data-end=\"2365\"\u003eQueen size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 15–18 mm  \u003cstrong data-start=\"2376\" data-end=\"2392\"\u003eWorker size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 6–13 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2404\" data-end=\"2407\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2409\" data-end=\"2622\"\u003eNote: All ants for sale have a range where the species is native. Always check your local regulations before purchasing live ants.\u003cbr data-start=\"2484\" data-end=\"2487\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2487\" data-end=\"2505\"\u003eStates Native: Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLearn more:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/pages\/camponotus-care-guide\"\u003eCarpenter Ant Care Guide\u003c\/a\u003e | \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.americanantstore.com\/pages\/ant-feeding-guide\"\u003eAnt Feeding Guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"American Ant Store","offers":[{"title":"1 queen","offer_id":47093424914690,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen 5-10 workers","offer_id":47093424947458,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0693\/7024\/9474\/files\/CamponotusPennsylvanicusQueen.jpg?v=1764622804"}],"url":"https:\/\/americanantstore.com\/collections\/virginia.oembed","provider":"American Ant Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}