Mysterious Tiny Holes in Yard: Antlions or Something Else?

Northeast Texas. Quarter-inch to eighth-inch holes, 1 inch deep, no mounds/pellets, 30+ holes in 3 sq ft bare dirt near foundation/patio. Reappear within 30 min of filling. Tiny white shed skins found. Greyish-black creature fills hole opening, darts down instantly when disturbed. Dirt moist but not wet.

Strong Evidence for Antlions (Doodlebugs)

• Larval antlions dig conical pits in loose soil to trap ants.
• Pit angle = soil's "angle of repose" (steeper in firmer soil).
• Larva waits at bottom with jaws open.
• Prey falls in → slides down → eaten.
• Shed skins (exuviae) from molting.
• Adults are winged, nocturnal, rarely seen.

Why Your Soil Fits

Moist, somewhat firm soil → steeper pits, smaller openings. Matches your description perfectly.

Confirmation

At night, shine flashlight into pits. May see larvae at bottom. Or place ant near pit edge—watch capture.

Are They Harmful?

• No damage to plants, structures, people.
• Beneficial: eat ants and small insects.
• Temporary: disappear when conditions change.

Management

None needed. They're fascinating predators. If holes bother you, disturb soil regularly—but they'll return if habitat suits them.

Your "CSI" investigation was impressive. You've got antlions.