Frequently Asked Questions

Our ants are carefully packaged and shipped in climate-controlled containers to ensure their safety during transit. We also provide tracking for all orders. Standard shipping takes 2-3 days, but expedited 1-2 day options are available and encouraged. Check our shipping policy for more info.

Yes, we offer a live arrival guarantee. If your ants do not arrive healthy, we will work with you to resolve the issue. We also offer a 2-week survival window on all colony purchases. If your colony doesn't succeed due to natural causes we will provide a replacement. Check our refund policy for more info.

Due to the nature of working with live animals, we do not accept returns or exchanges. However, we are committed to ensuring your satisfaction and will address any concerns you may have. Check our refund policy for more info.

We offer a variety of ant species, each with unique characteristics. Our selection includes both beginner-friendly and more advanced species. They are labeled as such in their product descriptions.

Consider factors like experience level, habitat requirements, growth rates, maximum colony sizes, and more. Our team is happy to help you select the best species for your situation and the product descriptions will cover all of this information as well.

Each purchase includes a queen ant, workers, and brood (eggs, larvae, pupae), as well as detailed care instructions. We do not sell individual queens due to the high risk of them dying before establishing a colony. Instead, we take on this risk to ensure your colony has the best chance for long-term success. Additional supplies such as fluon, nectar, feeder insects, and enclosures are available for purchase separately or as part of a bundle with your colony.

Yes, ants require a specific suitable environment to thrive. There are several options available through independent sellers such as Tarheel Ants and our own Ant Labs that meet the requirements of any particular species.

We comply with all APHIS regulations and only ship ants where legally permitted. Species can only be sold to states that they are naturally found in, and any attempt to purchase ants that are not native to your state will result in a refund. Check out our APHIS regulations page for more info.

Upon arrival, place your ants in their new habitat as soon as possible. Follow the care instructions provided to ensure they acclimate smoothly.

Each species has specific care requirements, including temperature, humidity, and diet. We provide comprehensive care guides with each purchase. Make sure you do your research before purchasing to ensure you have everything ready upon arrival of your ant colony.

Ants typically require a mix of proteins (seeds or feeder insects) and sugars (nectar/sugar water). We offer specialized ant food and supplements to meet their dietary needs.

It’s generally not recommended to introduce new ants to an established colony, as they may not be accepted and could cause harm.

The lifespan of an ant colony can vary depending on the species and care. Some colonies can live for more than a decade and reach sizes up to 100,000+ individuals with proper care.

If your colony is struggling, please contact us for advice. We can help diagnose potential issues and suggest solutions to improve their health.

Absolutely! We provide a wealth of resources on ant care, including articles, videos, and personalized support to help you succeed with your colony. Check out our Care Guides page for more info.

Even with the best care, ant colonies can sometimes fail to thrive. This can happen for reasons beyond our control, as nature can be unpredictable. We encourage you not to give up on the hobby—consider trying again with a hardier, easier-to-care-for species. With persistence and the right colony, you'll have a better chance of success.