California Harvester Ant vs Black and Gold Velvet Ant
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | California Harvester Ant | Black and Gold Velvet Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pogonomyrmex californicus | Dasymutilla nigripes |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Mutillidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 10-16 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Central North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
California Harvester Ant
A small harvester ant found in hot deserts of the American Southwest. Colonies are often founded by groups of cooperating queens.
Did You Know?
Multiple unrelated queens can found a single colony together, then fight to the death until only one remains.
Black and Gold Velvet Ant
A medium-sized velvet ant with golden-orange hair on the thorax contrasting with its black legs and abdomen. It is found across the central United States.
Did You Know?
Velvet ants can survive being stung by almost any predator due to their nearly impenetrable exoskeleton.