Antlion (Adult)

Scientific Name: Myrmeleontidae

Order & Family: Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae

Size: 2 to 4 cm wingspan (varies by species)

Sandy soil areas, woodlands, and scrublands; often found near light sources at night.

Adults may feed on pollen and nectar or small insects; larvae are famously predatory, eating ants and other small arthropods.

Nocturnal adults are poor fliers; larvae create conical pits in sand to trap prey. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Harmless to humans; highly beneficial to ecosystems as they control ant and pest populations.

Identified on: 6/18/2026