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Photo#629195
wasp or velvet ant? - Dasymutilla magnifica - female

wasp or velvet ant? - Dasymutilla magnifica - Female
Plum Canyon, Anza Borrego Desert State Park, San Diego County, California, USA
April 1, 2012
Size: one and one half inches
i have heard it called a velvet ant , but also was told they have a stinger and are a wasp? also have seen different colors. white and others

Dasymutilla magnifica
Based on distribution.

Moved from Velvet Ants.

Moved for expert attention
Moved from ID Request.

Both, actually. :)

Velvet ants are wasps. The females (such as yours) are wingless, and pack a powerful sting--which is why they're also known as "cow killers."

The experts will be able to take the ID further.

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