Velvet Ants, a.k.a. Cow Killers Ants
Dasymutilla occidentalis
Red 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.
Northern Giant Hornet Sting
Northern giant hornets (also known as "Asian giant hornets" or "murder hornets") have stingers large enough to puncture a beekeeping suit. Read about how painful these hornet stings can be.
Bee Careful!: Expert Tips On What to Do for a Bee Sting
While bees are outside everywhere during the summer, learn what to do if you are stung by one.
How to Enjoy the Summer Sun Without Getting Stung
The National Pest Management Association is sharing helpful information about stinging insects and tips to prevent any painful stings this summer.
Rainy Spring and Summer Will Do More Than Dampen Outdoor Plans
The NPMA today released its bi-annual Bug Barometer® forecast. According to the group’s team of entomologists, warm and wet spring and summer conditions predicted for much of the U.S. will contribute to spikes in pest populations nationwide.
Native Stinging Insects Pose Greater Threat to Americans than Invasive “Murder Hornets”
Although the northern or "Asian" giant hornet may not pose a significant threat to most Americans, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) is reminding the public about the serious health threats that native stinging insects pose to the entire country.
FAQ: Northern Giant Hornets
Everything you need to know about northern or "Asian" giant hornets and whether they currently pose a threat in the U.S.