Myrmecocystus kennedyi

Myrmecocystus kennedyi (Kennedy’s Honeypot Ants)

Myrmecocystus kennedyi, or Kennedy’s Honeypot Ant, is a beautiful, amber-colored species native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States. Known for their adaptability, calm temperament, and unique replete behavior, these ants are a joy to keep and observe. Their repletes, filled with stored nectar, hang elegantly from the ceilings of their nest chambers, adding a distinctive living display to any formicarium.

This species is particularly well suited to warm, arid conditions and shows remarkable resilience under steady heat. M. kennedyi forages mostly during twilight hours in nature, but in captivity, colonies adjust easily to regular light cycles and feeding routines. They are efficient builders, forming well-structured chambers and maintaining clean, organized nests.

Kennedy’s Honeypot Ants are excellent for intermediate or careful beginner keepers who can provide consistent sugar access and heat. Once settled, they exhibit steady, controlled growth and reward patient observation with a breathtaking colony aesthetic marked by golden-amber repletes.

Species Info

General:
Elegant desert honeypot species with warm amber tones and calm behavior. Well-organized colonies that thrive under stable heat and low humidity.

Diet:
Offer byFormica Ant Nectar continuously, supplemented with small insects such as crickets, mealworms, or fruit flies several times per week. Sugars maintain repletes, and proteins sustain brood development.

Temperature:
Maintain 78–85°F with a slight gradient. Keep brood chambers lightly humid while leaving upper nest zones dry.

Nest:
Vertical or deep desert-style nests with textured walls for replete hanging. TarheelAnts or sand-clay setups preferred.

Diapause:
No diapause required; colonies grow year-round under warm conditions.

Growth:
Egg-to-worker time averages 7–8 weeks. Colonies may reach hundreds of workers in the first year with consistent heat and feeding.

Queen size: 13–15 mm  Worker size: 4–8 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: Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah