Not the usual wasp?

robin28 · #1 (**permalink**) 26-06-2011, 12:49 PM

These two were in the bedroom this morning when we woke up. Not Vespula vulgaris, I think, but what are they?

Thanks, Robin

Jason Green · #2 (**permalink**) 26-06-2011, 01:04 PM

Afternoon Robin, and welcome to WAB!

What a spectacular-looking Sphecid wasp! Do you have any views of it with the wings open?

Take care,

Jason

Matt Smith · #3 (**permalink**) 26-06-2011, 05:12 PM

Ectemnius sp.

robin28 · #4 (**permalink**) 27-06-2011, 09:16 AM

Thank you both. No, wings open was much the same as departure, refusal to pose for any more photos.

There are so many different bees and wasps here and the Collins Field Guide is (necessarily) unable to provide great detail. Where do I look for the next level?

Thanks

R

robin28 · #5 (**permalink**) 04-07-2011, 08:47 AM

Better, I have a specimen that seems to have been trapped and died.

Thanks

Robin

Matt Smith · #6 (**permalink**) 04-07-2011, 11:56 AM

The best book for Iding these is this one - Solitary Wasps (Naturalists' Handbooks Series) by Yeo and Corbett. A microscope or very good hand lens will be needed to see the level of detail required.