Velvet Ants, a.k.a. Cow Killers Ants
Dasymutilla occidentalisRed Velvet Ants Identification
Pest Stats
Color
Black, with areas of very bright red, orange, yellow or white
Legs
6
Shape
Females – wingless, can look like a red and black ant
Males – winged, wasp-like
Size
1/8 – 7/8” (3-23 mm)
Antennae
Yes
Region
Found throughout U.S.
Red Velvet Ants Infestation
Velvet Ant Prevention
Red velvet ants are solitary and usually found only one at a time. To avoid these stinging ants, contact a pest management professional to safely remove any cow killer ants found in your home.

Red Velvet Ants Education
Where Can You Find Red Velvet Ants?
Female cow killer ants are also typically seen running somewhat erratically on the ground, especially on bare or sandy areas in the warm summer months. These pests will occasionally enter structures for insect prey. Male velvet ants are often found on flowers, although some species are nocturnal.
What are Common Habits of Red Velvet Ants?
Female cow killer ants dig into the nesting chambers of ground-nesting bees and wasps and lay their eggs on the larvae inside. When the immature velvet ant is born, it eats its host and then spins its cocoon within the pupal case of its host.
Red Velvet Ant Stings
Female red velvet ant stings are very potent and have earned them the nickname "cow killer ant" because of the myth that the sting is so painful it could kill a cow. While the sting is painful, the venom is not very toxic. Like most stinging insects, velvet ants rarely sting unless provoked. Males do not sting.
Most red velvet ant stings result in a limited local reaction with pain and swelling. If you’re stung, look for a small black dot at the sting site. If there’s one there, carefully remove it by swiping a hard object like a credit card over the area. The stinger can take 2-3 minutes to release all its venom, so removing it quickly can reduce the severity of the sting.
Once the stinger is removed, clean the area with soap and water and apply ice. Benadryl and over the counter 1% hydrocortisone ointment can help calm the reaction. Consider taking a pain reliever as needed.