Red Velvet Ant (Cow Killer)

Natural Habitat

Found in dry, sandy, open areas such as fields, pastures, and suburban lawns where ground-nesting bees and wasps are present.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on nectar and water; larvae are external parasites of ground-nesting bees and wasps, consuming the host's larvae and pupae.

Behavior Patterns

Solitary wasps; females are wingless, hairy, and move quickly on the ground, while males have wings and fly. They are known for their extremely tough exoskeleton and a squeaking sound (stridulation) when threatened.

Risks & Benefits

Females possess an exceptionally long, painful sting, earning the nickname 'cow killer,' though it is not medically lethal to humans or livestock. They benefit ecosystems by naturally regulating populations of other ground-nesting stinging insects.

Identified on: 2/19/2026