Velvet ants, sometimes called “cow killers,” are striking insects known for their vibrant, fuzzy appearance. They are known for their distinctive look and potent sting. Their bright coloration serves as a warning, signaling a powerful defense mechanism.
What is a Velvet Ant?
Despite their common name, velvet ants are actually wingless wasps. They belong to the family Mutillidae, encompassing over 7,000 species worldwide. Females are wingless and resemble large, hairy ants. Their bodies are covered in a dense, velvety pile of hairs, often brightly colored in shades of red, orange, black, white, silver, or gold.
Velvet ants exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have different appearances. While females are wingless and ground-dwelling, males typically have wings and more closely resemble conventional wasps. Their tough exoskeletons provide protection and help them retain moisture. These solitary insects are found globally in open, dry, and sandy areas like fields, meadows, or lawns.
The Severity of the Sting
The sting of a velvet ant, particularly species like Dasymutilla occidentalis (the “cow killer”), is renowned for its extreme pain. It ranks high on the Schmidt Pain Index, known for its intense, long-lasting pain. The pain is often characterized as burning and radiating.
Immediately following a sting, individuals typically experience intense, localized pain, which may be accompanied by swelling, redness, and the formation of a white welt around the sting site. The severe pain usually lasts for about 15 to 30 minutes, though residual discomfort can persist for a few hours. While excruciating, the venom of velvet ants is generally not highly toxic to humans, and the sting is rarely medically dangerous unless an allergic reaction occurs. The nickname “cow killer” is an exaggeration of the sting’s intensity, as it is highly unlikely to cause fatality in large animals.
Immediate Care for a Sting
If stung by a velvet ant, the immediate priority is to clean the sting site thoroughly with soap and water. This helps to prevent infection. Applying a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in cloth to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate the intense pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be used for discomfort, and antihistines can help manage any itching or localized swelling.
It is important to monitor the sting site for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, pus, or worsening pain. Watch for any indications of an allergic reaction, which can include hives, widespread rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If any signs of a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis appear, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness, immediate medical attention is necessary.
Avoiding Velvet Ant Stings
Velvet ants are generally not aggressive and will only sting if provoked or handled. They are most active during warmer months and often found in open, sunny areas with sandy soil. To avoid encounters, it is advisable to wear closed-toe shoes and long pants when walking in areas where velvet ants are commonly found, such as fields, meadows, or sandy paths.
If a velvet ant is spotted, the best course of action is to simply observe it from a distance and avoid direct contact. Never attempt to pick up or handle these insects, as their defensive sting is their primary response to perceived threats.