The common name is given because of the resemblance to ants and the velvet-like covering of hair. Velvet ants are actually wingless wasps of the family Mutillidae. Their compactness of appearance is the result of fusion of body regions and strong development of the exoskeleton. As an even more formidable defense mechanism the insect possesses a sting which, because of its length and maneuverability, may be directed at a considerable angle from the abdomen. The bright color pattern on the body wall may well serve as advertisement to potential predators that an unpleasant experience is in store if a velvet ant is dealt with carelessly.
Velvet ants seen walking on the sand are all females.
Like males of other wasp groups, they are incapable of stinging. They occur in smaller numbers than females and may only be present during a relatively short part of the summer. Males are often sighted flying in irregular patterns a few feet above the sand. Once a male locates an appropriate female, there is a brief mating after which the female continues her wandering. A mated female apparently soon loses her attractiveness to males, each must locate the burrow of a solitary wasp or bee, a task made difficult by the host's usually having covered up the nest entrance.