Subject: Re: What kind of bug is this?
Location: Redlands, Ca
July 8, 2017 9:44 pm
Hello,
I live in Redlands, Ca. This afternoon I found a insect that resembles a tarantula. I took a few photos then walked away because it seemed extremely scared of me (which is understandable).
If you can identify this insect and let me know what it is I would appreciate it.
Signature: Jennifer
Dear Jennifer,
This is a flightless female wasp in the genus Dasymutilla, the Velvet Ants. We are not certain of the species, but it might be Dasymutilla sackenii based on this BugGuide image. Velvet Ants are reported to have a very painful sting.
