Velvet Ant Facts

Velvet Ant Facts Velvet ants are part of class Insecta and are found worldwide. They get their name from the bright, fuzzy fur on their bodies. For example, Dasymutilla occidentalis (red velvet ant) is derived from the Greek root word meaning shaggy (dasy). Fast Facts: Velvet Ants Scientific Name: MutillidaeCommon Names: Velvet AntOrder: HymenopteraBasic Animal Group: InvertebrateDistinguishing Characteristics: Black or brown bodies with bright red or orange velvety hairSize: 0.25-0.8 inchesDiet: Bumblebee larvae, nectarHabitat: Desert, meadows, fields, forest edgesConservation Status: Not assessedFun Fact: Red velvet ants are often called cow killers because their stings were said to be powerful enough to kill a cow. Description Velvet ants are wasps that get their name from the velvety fur on their bodies and are not very aggressive. Females do not have wings and walk along the ground for food, while the males have transparent wings and look more like wasps. Females possess curved stingers that extend from the abdomen and can sting multiple times.