Wasp or Sawfly ID

[sebastianbawn]

Found this one in my garden in Bristol, approx 12-15mm.

[Dogghound]

Ichneumonid wasp

[sebastianbawn]

I thought that at first, but cannot see a visible ovipositor

[Jason Green]

Ichneumonidae.

This could be male (though some sub-groups/species I believe don't have them externally when not in use).

[sebastianbawn]

That may explain it, thanks Jason. Just hope someone may Id species. Seems I always find the common ones that look like every other species!

[nikolai_avenger]

Well I'm beat on this one. It looks distinctive enough and you might be able to get further by posting on HymIs. I'd be interested to learn what this one is, if you are able to get an id for it.

Cheers. Nik.

[sebastianbawn]

I have just registered with the forum you mentioned, and am awaiting the activation of my account. So if I get a positive ID I will report back Nikolai, many thanks

[sebastianbawn]

Whilst I am waiting for a reply, I was hoping you could take a look at this for me Nikolai. It was Id'd on HymIs as A.armatorius (a female), but I have not seen many with the black rings near the tip of the abdomen. Could it be a different colour form?

[nikolai_avenger]

Hello, Sebastian.

As far as I am aware, the abdominal banding is not always uniform on A. armatorius, however this is not one of the species I have much experience with. Furthermore I certainly would not like to contradict any i.d. given by the HymIs bods! I am but an enthusiatic dabbler with these insects and they are a many and varied group. Happy to have a bash at any you might post though.

Cheers. Nik.

[sebastianbawn]

Thanks Nikolai. While I am waiting for a (hopeful) reply, here's a little one to test you. Have posted before and had fair feedback, but would like to see your opinion. Both pics are the same specimen