Pit-building Antlions

Afrikaans name: Mierleeu

Photo © Steven Herbert

Myrmeleon species

These winged creatures are probably more familiar to us in their larval form, which builds conical pits in sand to catch small insects. They are, however, only one genus of similar insects. There are dozens of species in the genus Myrmeleon.

Myrmeleons have a wingspan of just over 4 cm. They typically feed on ants.

They are found over the whole of South Africa but are more common in drier regions. They are not only found in South Africa. They may be found as far north as parts of equatorial Africa.

The Antlions are more active in the warmer months and are attracted to lights at night. Their larvae need sandy soil to make their traps. Did you know that the larvae walk backwards?

References and further reading

iNaturalist - Myrmeleon

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