Antlion

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Common names:Antlion, Doodlebug, Nerve-winged insect

Scientific name:  Hesperoleon abdominalis

Region:  This lacewing is found in various species throughout North America.

Life cycle:  This insect produces only one generation each year and may require up to two years completing its life cycle.  This insect is a lacewing and overwinters in the egg and larvae stages in sand.

Physical Description:  This 1 1/2 inch long, lacewing is dark brown with some yellow behind its head, and has long membranous wings and clubbed antennae.  The larva is brown, or sometimes gray, large abdomen and a thin thorax and head.  It is characterized by its walking backwards.

Feeding characteristics:  The larvae feed on ants and other small insects that it can trap.

Controls:  No controls are necessary.