Antlion larva (or 'Doodlebug')

Natural Habitat

Typically found in dry, sandy, or dusty areas, often under overhangs, rocky ledges, or at the base of trees, where they can build their pit traps. Some species live in other environments like leaf litter or rotten wood.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory. The larvae are ambush predators that dig conical pit traps in sand or loose soil to catch unsuspecting small insects, primarily ants, that fall into the pit.

Behavior Patterns

The most characteristic behavior is the construction of a conical pit trap to catch prey. The larva buries itself at the bottom of the pit, with only its powerful jaws exposed, waiting for an insect to fall in. If prey attempts to escape, the larva will flick sand at it to make it slide back down. They are largely sedentary once a pit is established.

Risks & Benefits

No risks to humans. As predators of small insects, especially ants, they play a beneficial role in ecosystem pest control by regulating insect populations.

Identified on: 9/13/2025