It’s Summer in Oklahoma so Beware of the Velvet Ant AKA Cow Killer or You’ll be Sorry
Watch your step, especially if you're barefoot. The dreaded Velvet Ant AKA Cow Killer has returned to Oklahoma for Summer. It's best to leave them alone otherwise, you'll be in for an excruciating experience.
SCROLL DOWN TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COW KILLER & IT'S PAINFUL STING
The Eastern Velvet Ant or Cow Killer is said to be one of the most painful bites or stings in the insect world. It's ranked as a 3 out of 4 on the Schmidt Sting Pain Index. Which is how the Cow Killer got its nickname.
Hit play on the video below to learn more about the Eastern Velvet Ant AKA Cow Killer
I guess someone who was stung claimed that the sting would kill a cow and it stuck. To date, there's no official record of a velvet ant killing a cow with its sting. However, those who have been stung may disagree.
SCROLL DOWN TO SEE OKLAHOMA'S TOP 5 MOST FRIGHTENING MYTHS & MONSTERS
It's the female velvet ant you should be aware of. She's a wingless wasp that resembles a large ant, who has a huge stringer and isn't afraid to use it. Most of the velvet ants in Oklahoma are red and black in color.
How painful is a Cow Killer sting? Watch the video below to find out
They can be found around the yard, garden, flowerbeds, and open fields. It's unusual to find one indoors, thank God. But you'll want to keep an eye out while outdoors. They aren't aggressive but will sting if agitated.
WHILE NOT AGGRESSIVE THE COW KILLER SHOULD BE LEFT ALONE TO AVOID A STING
Several of them have already been spotted in backyards across SWOK and summer has just started. Luckily they're solitary and don't swarm.
The Top 5 most frightening Oklahoma myths & monsters
Gallery Credit: Don "Critter" Brown
16 Unbelievable Sights to Behold in Oklahoma
Gallery Credit: Kelso
Oklahoma's Top 24 Terrific Towns & Prettiest Cities
Gallery Credit: Don "Critter" Brown