Ant lion cocoons (likely Myrmeleontidae family)
Scientific Name: Myrmeleontidae (family)
Order & Family: Order: Neuroptera, Family: Myrmeleontidae
Size: Cocoons: 10–15 mm in diameter. Adults: Wingspan of 2–15 cm.
Natural Habitat
Arid and semi-arid regions with loose, sandy soil; often found sheltered under lodges, stones, or in caves.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae (antlions) are generalist predators, primarily eating ants and other small insects by trapping them in sandy pits. Adults may eat pollen, nectar, or sometimes other small insects.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae live underground and dig funnel-shaped pits to trap prey. They undergo a complete metamorphosis, spinning a globular cocoon out of silk and sand to pupate before emerging as winged adults that are mostly nocturnal.
Risks & Benefits
They provide a benefit to ecosystems as natural pest controllers, particularly of ant populations. They pose no risk to humans or pets.
Identified on: 3/21/2026