Blog Layout

Ants That Sting | What You Need To Know If Velvet Ants Are In Your Yard

Jonathan Simkins

Ants That Sting | What You Need To Know If Velvet Ants Are In Your Yard


First, the name "Velvet Ant" is a little deceiving because these dasymutilla occidentalis are actually in the wasp family. This means... they are venoms and sting.


Velvet Ants don't look like typical wasps or bees; they're not winged or hairy like them, either. And while they resemble ants in size and shape, they don't live in colonies like ants do.

Where Velvet Ants Are Found


Velvet Ants are solitary creatures that nest near the ground on plant stems or under rocks or logs where they can hide during the daytime before emerging at night to hunt for prey such as caterpillars, flies and other insects that come within reach of their powerful jaws.


If you see a Velvet Ant in your yard, do not handle them. If they are in your house, do not squish them in a paper towel. They may sting you, and these guys can be toxic.


Unlike real ants, which bite with their mandibles, velvet ants sting their victims with one or two venomous stings that can inject paralyzing venom into their prey. Their sting is painful and may cause swelling at the site of the sting, but it is rarely life-threatening unless you are allergic or have an underlying medical condition like asthma or heart disease that makes you more susceptible to anaphylactic shock after being stung by a bee or other insect.


While the sting might not be life-threatening, it can be painful!



How Can You Tell If Velvet Ants Are In Your Yard?


Velvet Ants love sandy upland areas like backyards, parks, and pastures. Their bodies are covered with coarse hairs called setae, which reflect sunlight effectively. You might see them crawling across your yard at dusk and dawn when they are actively hunting. Velvet Ants' color is black and bright orange, and they look like an oversized, oddly-colored ant.



What You Should Do.


Again, Velvet Ants are stinging insects. Never handle a Velvet Ant or any unknown bug. If you see a strange bug in your yard, call a professional entomologist for identification and next steps. Insect IQ has two entomologists on staff to give you a free evaluation and help you determine what action (if any) you need to take to control your pest problem.

For more information call 855-930-2847 (bugs).


Or visit Stinging Insect Control.


By Jonathan Simkins March 25, 2024
Expert Insights: Managing the Annual Lubber Grasshopper Invasion from Insect IQ
By Jonathan Simkins November 30, 2023
Ensuring a Merry and Pest-Free Christmas: Expert Tips from Insect IQ
By Jonathan Simkins November 22, 2023
"Laughing Off Unwanted Thanksgiving Guests with Insect IQ"
By Jonathan Simkins November 14, 2023
Ensuring a Pest-Free Holiday Season with Insect IQ The holiday season brings joy and festivities, but amidst the cheer lies a concern often overlooked – the potential for insects and rodents to join the celebration through your Christmas decorations. At Insect IQ, we're here to guide you through common pests that may infiltrate your holiday decor and provide essential tips on how to prevent and address this unexpected issue.
By Jonathan Simkins August 28, 2023
Bat Season starts August 15th. We can help! The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has set the official bat maternity season from April 15th through August 15th. During this time, it is prohibited to remove, harm or exterminate bats, as this is the time when female bats are raising their young ones, and removing them can lead to the separation of the young from their mothers, causing harm to both the mother and the young. The FWC recommends that if you have a bat infestation on your property, it's best to wait until the maternity season is over before taking any action. However, if there are urgent public health and safety concerns, then FWC recommends contacting a wildlife removal professional or the local FWC office to determine the best course of action. It is important to note that even during the maternity season, if a bat poses an immediate threat to human health or safety, it can be removed by a professional under certain conditions. What To Do If You Suspect Bats In Your House  If you suspect rat or rodent activity, call a wildlife specialist for identification and next steps. Insect IQ has wildlife experts on staff to give you a free evaluation and help you determine what action (if any) you need to take to control your pest problem. For more information call 855-930-2847 (bugs). Or visit https://www.insectiq.com/our-services/wildlife-services for more information about wildlife services. LICENSE & CERTIFICATIONS DACS JB131270 Pest Control License Insect IQ DACS JF8248 1994 Certified Pest Control Operator #insectiq #bats #batbugs #bathouse #batnests #familyowned
By Jonathan Simkins August 3, 2023
AT INSECT IQ We strive to improve the world where we live, work, and play by protecting people, public health, food, and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. We deliver pest management solutions to commercial and residential customers throughout the Tampa Bay Market. We are experiencing year-upon-year continued growth and innovation by solving our customers’ day-to-day pest management, wildlife, termite, lawn & ornamental pest control, and stinging insect solutions. Wildlife Specialist Wanted Insect IQ is seeking a full-time, career-oriented individual to join our team as a Pest Control Technician. The ideal candidate will be able to work independently and be self-motivated. Experience in the field is helpful, but we are willing to train the right person.
By Jonathan Simkins August 3, 2023
AT INSECT IQ We strive to improve the world where we live, work, and play by protecting people, public health, food, and property from the diseases and dangers of pests. We deliver pest management solutions to commercial and residential customers throughout the Tampa Bay Market. We are experiencing year-upon-year continued growth and innovation by solving our customers’ day-to-day pest management, wildlife, termite, lawn & ornamental pest control, and stinging insect solutions. Wildlife Specialist Wanted Insect IQ is seeking a full-time, career-oriented individual to join our team as a Wildlife Technician. The ideal candidate will be able to work independently and be self-motivated. Experience in the field is helpful, but we are willing to train the right person.
By Jonathan Simkins July 17, 2023
Identifying animal feces, commonly referred to as scat, can be a task that requires some attention to detail. The appearance of feces can vary depending on the animal's diet, making it a slightly challenging task. However, by asking the right questions and taking necessary precautions, you can narrow down the potential suspects. Please note that engaging in scat identification comes with potential hazards . It is important to prioritize your safety. Droppings can be unsanitary and carry germs, so it is crucial to handle them with proper protection. Avoid direct contact and minimize breathing near the droppings. If you must handle them, use tools, gloves, and wear appropriate clothing. Dust-borne particles from droppings can also pose health risks.
By Jonathan Simkins July 8, 2023
Caution: Roachpalooza - The Toothbrush and Toothpaste Edition! 
By Jonathan Simkins July 3, 2023
Pest Control & Lawn Care—One Company, One Call BUNDLE SERVICES: PEST + LAWN + TERMITE TODAY AND SAVE!!!!!!!! ELEVATE YOUR OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE: PEST, LAWN, AND TERMITE BUNDLES FOR SAVINGS GALORE! Yearning for hassle-free outdoor maintenance? Look no further! Insect IQ / Nutrilawn is your go-to destination for a comprehensive range of services bundled into one irresistible package. Say goodbye to juggling multiple companies—our all-in-one solution is here to revolutionize your outdoor care!
More Posts
Share by: