Velvet Ant 4
A Velvet Ant that I photographed at Lake Waterford Park in Maryland.
"The name “velvet ant” is a misnomer. These insects are not ants but are, in fact, wasps. Males are winged and are not frequently observed by most people. Females are wingless, ant-like in general appearance, and may be seen scurrying about on the ground. Both males and females are covered by dense, velvety pubescence, hence the name velvet ant. They are also sometimes called “cow ants” or “cow killers” (although there is nothing to indicate that any cow has ever been killed by one)."
Velvet Ant 4
A Velvet Ant that I photographed at Lake Waterford Park in Maryland.
"The name “velvet ant” is a misnomer. These insects are not ants but are, in fact, wasps. Males are winged and are not frequently observed by most people. Females are wingless, ant-like in general appearance, and may be seen scurrying about on the ground. Both males and females are covered by dense, velvety pubescence, hence the name velvet ant. They are also sometimes called “cow ants” or “cow killers” (although there is nothing to indicate that any cow has ever been killed by one)."