Size: 1/4 - 1 inch

COLOR: Red and black

DESCRIPTION: Velvet ants are medium-sized, red and black insects that resemble ants, but are more closely related to wasps. Their bodies are densely clothed with red and black hairs that give the insect a velvety appearance. The wingless females (males are winged and rarely seen) can inflict a nasty sting, and can make a squeaking noise when captured.

LIFE CYCLE: The female velvet ant invades a nest of wasps or bumblebees and lays eggs in the cells of the host. The velvet ant larvae kills and eats the host bee pupa.

TYPE OF DAMAGE: Can sting

INTERESTING FACTS: These insects are parasitic on wasps and bees.