Antlion Larva (Doodlebug)

Natural Habitat

Typically found in sandy soil, dry dusty areas under eaves, or loose dirt where they can dig funnel-shaped pits.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; they primarily feed on ants and other small crawling insects that fall into their pit traps.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae dig cone-shaped pits in loose sand and wait buried at the bottom for unsuspecting prey to slide in. They often walk backward, leaving winding trails, hence the nickname 'doodlebug'.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans; beneficial to the ecosystem as they prey on various pest insects, particularly small ants.

Identified on: 2/14/2026