I.D Please flying insect.

rpf · #1 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 02:56 PM

Need help to I.D somthing i found flying around the bedroom loft, it was by the velux window and looks like it has 2 sets of wings, one orange in colour the other black, all blaack in colour and antenna that look like eyelashes.

Thanks in advance.

Matt Smith · #2 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 03:50 PM

This is the beetle Metoecus paradoxus, the larvae develop in wasp nests where they prey on the wasp larvae. We has a wasp nest in the roof space one year and lots of these trying to get out of the upstairs windows the following spring.

rpf · #3 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 04:04 PM

Oh Sh@!e, in other words i have 2 issues now?? one is the ugly looking flying "beetles" and a wasp bike?......

triops · #4 (**permalink**) 24-08-2010, 07:42 PM

Calm down, rpf! There are no issues! If you haven't been bothered by the wasps there is no reason why you should be worried. This unusual beetle has a fascinating life history..........google it and see. Both Metoecus and wasps are really beautiful and fascinating insects. Take a closer, longer look and enjoy the minor (major?) miracles. And, there is no reason you will get another wasps nest next year......it's just a matter of luck.