There are several species of velvet ants in Kansas that range from 1/2 inch to 1 inch in length. The males have blue-black wings and are usually found in sandy areas, flying low, in search of a mate. The females however are large, fuzzy looking, red insects that look like ants, but are not ants at all, but wingless wasps! The largest species in Kansas (Dasymutilla Accidentalis) is sometimes called a “Cow-Killer” because of the powerful sting of the female.
Adults feed on nectar and water. The female searches for ground-nesting wasp and bees, in which to lay her eggs. She will drop one egg beside each brood chamber, the young larvae will then invade the chamber and feed on bee larvae. The bees are no match for the powerful sting of these external parasites.
Velvet ants avoid predators by the following defense mechanisms; a durable exoskeleton, aposematic coloration (bright red colors usually indicate poisonous), warning sounds produced by a stridulatory organ in the abdomen, an alarm secretion (indicates a bad taste), rapid lateral and vertical evasive maneuvers, an aggressive stance and action when approached and of course that powerful sting. These defenses usually result in the velvet ant surviving a predators attack. That is why they received the title of “the indestructible insect.” Birds even hesitate and usually give up an attack on velvet ants.
A velvet ants’ sting is really something else. If you see one of these awful creatures, do not approach. Call All Star Pest Control immediately and let us protect your family and pets. Ask about our guarantee! 316.854.3096
