Antlion larva (Doodlebug)

Natural Habitat

Sandy or dusty areas, often under overhangs or near walls, where they can build their pitfall traps. They prefer dry, loose soil.

Diet & Feeding

Mainly ants and other small insects that fall into their pitfall traps. They are ambush predators.

Behavior Patterns

Antlion larvae are known for constructing conical pitfall traps in sand to catch prey. They bury themselves at the bottom of the pit, with only their jaws exposed, waiting for an insect to slide down the loose sand. If an insect tries to climb out, the larva will flick sand at it to make it fall back down. If removed from their pit, they will usually construct a new one.

Risks & Benefits

Antlion larvae pose no risk to humans; they do not bite or sting. They are beneficial for controlling ant populations and are an interesting example of predatory insect behavior in ecosystems.

Identified on: 9/18/2025