Large Velvet Ant Enamel Pin

Not actually an ant but a species of parasitoid wasps, Mutilla europaea can be found throughout Europe, northern Africa, and Asia. Females are completely wingless, while males fly in search of mates, which they sometimes carry off the ground. These insects are parasites, with different species preferring different bee or wasp hosts. Most hosts are ground-dwelling bees, so the female never needs to be airborne herself. When she spots a host’s burrow, she deposits her own egg near the hapless host’s young. The velvet ant larva feeds on its host until it pupates in the safety of the nest and then emerges to continue the cycle.

This hard enamel pin measures approximately 1 inch long and features bold enamel colors, copper metal, UV printed micro-details, and double posts for extra security.