rook
New Member
Posts: 10
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Post by rook on Aug 13, 2021 19:22:48 GMT -8
Found in newly cleared land near Plantersville, TX. About an inch in length. This guy/gal was walking at a brisk pace across some disturbed dirt that will become a driveway. It looks like an ant but I have never seen one this large or one with hair(?).   |
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Post by eurytides on Aug 13, 2021 19:40:59 GMT -8
Google “velvet ant.” I am pretty sure that’s what it is but I don’t know much else about it.
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Post by trehopr1 on Aug 13, 2021 20:25:51 GMT -8
Indeed, a wingless wasp with a VERY nasty sting.
Don't ever pick one up...
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Post by livingplanet3 on Aug 14, 2021 5:13:49 GMT -8
Yes - a Velvet Ant. Specifically, Dasymutilla occidentalis. This large species is commonly called the "Cow Killer". It's sting certainly isn't bad enough to kill a cow, but I can say from experience that it is indeed quite excruciating. I had the misfortune of picking up one of these when I was around 10 years old, and will never forget the experience! My local species (the one that stung me) is Dasymutilla klugii. |
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Post by wingedwishes on Aug 14, 2021 12:08:09 GMT -8
Though it looks like an ant, it is a wingless wasp that occurs in several colors. They are nice when pinned……
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rook
New Member
Posts: 10
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Post by rook on Aug 14, 2021 18:47:51 GMT -8
Wow. Thank you all once again.
I am glad I did not try to handle it.
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