Interesting looking isn't it. Seeing it scurrying across the ground made me think it might be some type of large ant. No, it's more like a spider. Then again, maybe it's a wasp???
It definitely has an unusual burnt orange pussy willow back end. My internet research states that it is called a Red Velvet Ant, but is actually a wasp. It is also known as a Cow Killer and sometimes called a Mule Killer!!! Neither sound good. Further research says that although this wingless female wasp doesn't kill cows or mules, it gives such a long and extremely painful sting that it leads one to believe it could kill a cow! Yikes! Here's one more reason for wearing closed toe shoes when walking through the countryside! Roy and I are starting to understand people's inclination to sit on top of picnic tables with their feet on the bench!
