Cow killer
Scientific name: Dasymutilla
Cow killer
Scientific name: Dasymutilla
Photo By Jennifer Rycenga , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Dasymutilla members are often mistaken for ants due to their wingless females, but they actually belong to the wasp family. Known as 'velvet ants' for their vividly colored, furry bodies, these insects deliver an incredibly painful sting, earning them the nickname 'cow killers.' However, this moniker is misleading as their sting, while intensely painful to humans, is not lethal to cows or other large animals. Their bright coloration is a classic example of aposematism, serving as a warning to predators about their potent defense.
Species of Cow killer
Photo By Jennifer Rycenga , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original