Monster Wasp! Can some1 identify it please??

[oxfordjon]

Hi everyone,

Over the last few days we've had what i would call "a monster Wasp" but what do i know, living at the bottom of the garden. it seems to be on its own, and seems to be hanging about a shed.

its wasp-like in shape, a very bright yellow, and about 1.5inchs long by half inch wide.

I will get a photo ASAP as this will help loads of course, i've scanned the web but cant find any photos of anything simular.. though u may just tell me its a normal fellow, i'm hoping its some kind of rare mammoth wasp visiting from abroad or something.

anyway, any help will be great! thanks loads.

photo to follow when possible!

cheers
Jon x

[Matt Smith]

As a start, try a Google for any of the following species:

Vespa crabro (Hornet)

Dolichovespula media queen (French or Median wasp)

Sirex gigas (Giant Wood Wasp).

Recognise anything?

Matt

[The Woodman]

Sirex giga would fit the bill, methinks.

They can be quite variable in colour too, from all black to all yellow.

[Kayleigh]

Sounds like Greater Horntail Sawfly - Urocerus Gigas although they look horrendous they are completely harmless..

was it like this.





Both images were taken from the WAB Gallery and not out side links.

[oxfordjon]

Thanks for all your replies guys, really helpful.

I reckon its probably Vespa crabro (Hornet) its defo this kind of shape rather than the Sirex gigas so i think thats our fella. If i meet him again i'll be sure to grab a photo and post on here, just to confirm.

Thanks for your help

Jon