Ant lion cocoons (debris-covered type)

Natural Habitat

Found in sandy or loose soil areas, often sheltered under overhangs, buildings, or tree roots where soil remains dry.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae (doodlebugs) are predatory, eating ants and other small ground-dwelling insects. Adults typically feed on nectar and pollen, though some are predatory.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae spin spherical cocoons using silk mixed with sand or debris from their environment. They undergo metamorphosis inside these cocoons for several weeks before emerging as lace-winged adults.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans; they provide biological pest control by consuming large quantities of ants and other garden pests during their larval stage.

Identified on: 1/11/2026