Overall rating: 5.0 / 5 from 3 reviews.
She arrived happy and healthy! She arrived yesterday so we’ll see how she does but she arrived with several workers which was a bonus because I only ordered a queen. Shipping only took a little longer which I don’t mind at all and support was very quick to respond.
We had our first worker ant hatch! My boys are so excited!
Our ant arrived alive and beautiful
Ruby Chestnut Carpenter Ant (Camponotus castaneus)
Camponotus castaneus, 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.
Colonies of C. castaneus 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.
When provided with seasonal cycles including a cool winter diapause. These ants flourish, forming impressive colonies that showcase natural carpenter ant behavior.
General:
Large, reddish carpenter ant native to temperate forests; known for calm colonies and long lifespans.
Diet:
Provide byFormica Ant Nectar and protein from insects or soft-bodied prey.
Temperature:
Maintain 78–85°F during the active season; cooler during winter rest.
Nest:
Wood-based or acrylic setups with mild humidity.
Diapause:
Yes—essential for long-term health.
Growth:
Slow and steady; develops large, long-lived colonies over time.
Queen size: 17–20 mm Worker size: 7–12 mm
Note: All ants for sale have a range where the species is native. Always check your local regulations before purchasing live ants.
States Native: Alabama, 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
Learn more: Carpenter Ant Care Guide | Ant Feeding Guide
Shipping happens from Monday-Thursday via UPS Next Day Air. Flat Rate $24.99 Charge. From the moment your order is shipped you can expect to receive them no later than 12pm the following day!
Please note, orders take between 1 to 3 business days to process and ship. If you would like your order to be shipped the same day please email us at support@americanantstore.com with your order number as the subject line and the email text "SHIP TODAY". We will do our best to ensure it goes out the same day!
During the summer ants are shipped with an icepack at no additional charge. The same goes for shipments during winter with a heat pack!
Live Arrival Guarantee
Every colony we ship is backed by our Premium Live Arrival Guarantee. We pack with care so your ants arrive alive, healthy, and ready to thrive.
5-Day Health Guarantee
We proudly offer an industry-leading 5-day health guarantee on all colonies. If your queen or colony declines within this period, we will provide one complimentary replacement, no questions asked.
Simple, Hassle-Free Replacement Process
If an issue occurs, just send clear photo proof within 5 days of delivery and we’ll take care of the rest.
Email: support@americanantstore.com
Live Animal Responsibility
These are live animals. We are not responsible for ants left outside in extreme temperatures, including summer heat or winter cold, or for packages that sit unattended after delivery. Proper and prompt retrieval is essential for their safety.
Commitment to Quality
We take exceptional care in raising, packing, and shipping every colony, and we stand behind the quality of each queen or colony we send out.
