Are cow killer ants poisonous (velvet ants)?

Question

We've been seeing more and more of these little buggers lately, and I just wondered if they are poisonous or not. I googled them and none of the sites that said they were, but then again none of the sites stated that they aren't either. So I just wanted to know..I have two small kids and wanted to know if I should be extra careful around them. (I already make them wear shoes anytime they go outside)

Thanks.

Answer 1

Do not kill them. The female ones(wingless) are not overly aggressive and will usually try to run away first. They do not travel in swarms, and also help to keep the other wasp poulations in check. Simply wear shoes and do not pick them up.