what kind of bug is this

When I was a kid we always called them Cow Ants. They are actually a type of non-flying wasp. Never got stung by one although stung by just about everything else. :)

I steer away from any insect that is RED...

Roy Ken

Wow - Never heard or seen 'em. Now I know to stay away from them. Interesting.

Note the time of the OP and the correct answer. Pretty good feedback!

Cow Killer

I grew up on a farm; we called them cow killers because if they stung you, it felt like it could kill a cow.

Thanks for all the quick reply's. My grandson was right by this bad a## bug, he is only 18 months. I am glad he did not pick it up!! He is stepping on bugs all the time. He better have shoes on if he wants to step on one of these!

If you swat it it is a DEAD BUG :)

jimR

I've seen velvet ants around here and they usually have an orange butt. I've read they pack a very painful sting. Craig

It is actually a Red Velvet Ant, which is really a wasp.

Mutillidae Family

That is a red ant.