Antlion

Natural Habitat

Sandy or dusty areas, often under overhangs or in sheltered locations

Diet & Feeding

The larvae (often called 'doodlebugs') are predatory, primarily feeding on ants and other small crawling insects that fall into their pit traps. Adults of some species are predatory, while others may feed on pollen or nectar.

Behavior Patterns

The most distinctive behavior of antlion larvae is the construction of conical pitfalls in loose soil to trap prey. They lie at the bottom, partially buried, waiting for insects to fall in. When prey attempts to escape, the antlion actively flicks sand to cause it to slide further down. Adults are typically nocturnal and weaker fliers.

Risks & Benefits

Antlion larvae are beneficial to ecosystems as natural pest control, particularly for ants. They pose no risk to humans; they do not bite or sting and are not venomous.

Identified on: 9/17/2025