The red velvet ant is famous for having one of the most painful stings in the insect world. In fact, it is often called the cow killer ant, because its sting is said to be so terrible it could kill a cow. Neither one of these names perfectly suit the creature, because it is actually not an ant at all. The red velvet ant is a flightless wasp that usually takes over the nests of bumble bees and stays low to the ground. Only the female of the species has a stinger, but what a stinger it is! It is exceptionally large and packs one serious punch. While the sting is not deadly, save for those who might have an allergic reaction, it is a highly unpleasant sensory experience.
What evidence would cause a person fear the red velvet ant?
It lives on the ground.
It takes over bee nests.
It is flightless.
It has a powerful stinger.
All of the given evidence would cause a person to fear the red velvet ant.
The evidence that would cause a person to fear the red velvet ant include:
1. It lives on the ground: Since the red velvet ant lives on the ground, it is more likely to encounter humans while they are walking or sitting outside. This proximity increases the chances of an encounter and potential sting.
2. It takes over bee nests: Red velvet ants are known to parasitize the nests of bumblebees and take them over. This behavior indicates that they are capable of finding and infiltrating other insect colonies, potentially posing a threat to humans who may unwittingly disturb their nests.
3. It is flightless: The fact that the red velvet ant is flightless means that it primarily stays close to the ground and is less likely to be avoided by humans. This increases the chances of accidental encounters and potential stings.
4. It has a powerful stinger: The female red velvet ant possesses a large and powerful stinger. This stinger is known to deliver an exceptionally painful sting, making it a cause for fear or apprehension when encountering this insect.