The Scarlet Velvet Ant, or ‘Cow Killer,’ Is Found in KY & IN and the Stings Are Terrible

When I remember the family trips of my youth, when we'd visit relatives in southwestern New Mexico, I'm drawn to my experiences riding horses. I loved it then, but it's a non-starter today. I guess because of my height, I make horses nervous. It's a good thing to be aware of.

So were those large dirt mounds that housed innumerable fire ants. If you're on horseback, that's a huge concern. One wrong step, and those ants shoot up the horse's leg like you wouldn't believe. And the pain. Goodness

Velvet Ants Aren't Really Ants

Here in Kentucky and across the river in Indiana, we do have fire ants. They're not as indigenous to a specific reason as I used to think. But today, for our purposes, we're discussing another ant you want no part of. Nicknamed the "cow killer," it will also inflict great pain on humans. Introduce yourself to a species of wasp known as the scarlet velvet ant.

Where Are You Most Likely to Encounter Velvet Ants?

Let's get a big positive about velvet ants out of the way. They are not aggressive and will scurry at the first sign of adversity. However, you might have an accidental encounter, as they often find themselves in lawns or pastures (hence the threat to cows), and they may wander into your garage or outbuilding. If you do, however, handle one (not advised) and it's a female, you could be in for a very nasty sting. After all, they really are a species of wasp. I guess they get the name because, well, they look like big scary ants.

Oh, and they're called "cow killers" because the pain is said to be so intense it can drop a cow in its tracks.

Let's not test those waters.