06/06/2026
We’ve had a few folks in the Lexington area asking about these bright red, fuzzy "ants" crawling around the mulch lately. If you see one in your yard, don't let the kids or pets get too close to it!
This is a Velvet Ant, and there are a couple of big myths floating around about them that you should know:
❌ Myth #1: It’s just a colorful ant.
Actually, it’s not an ant at all. It’s a wingless female wasp. Because she doesn't have wings, she spends her time crawling on the ground looking for beetle and bumblebee nests.
❌ Myth #2: Their sting can literally kill a cow.
They are famously nicknamed "Cow Killers," but that's just a huge exaggeration. Their venom isn't actually strong enough to kill a cow (or a human), but the pain from the sting is supposed to be absolutely brutal.
The good news is that they aren't aggressive. They won’t bother you unless you step on them barefoot or try to pick them up.
If your yard is starting to crawl with too many unwanted visitors this summer—whether it's wasps, actual ants, or spiders—give us a shout at Lamp’s Pest Solutions.
We are locally owned right here in Lexington, and we'll make sure your yard stays safe for the family. 📞 Drop us a message or call today!
