American Cuckoo Wasp vs Long-tailed Skipper
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | American Cuckoo Wasp | Long-tailed Skipper |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chrysis angolensis | Urbanus proteus |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Chrysididae | Hesperiidae |
| Size | 7-12 mm | 43-55 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Parasites | Omnivores |
| Regions | Sub-Saharan Africa | Southern United States through Central and South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
American Cuckoo Wasp
A metallic green and blue cuckoo wasp found across sub-Saharan Africa. It parasitizes mud-nesting wasps and bees on rocky outcrops and buildings.
Did You Know?
Despite its species name referencing Angola, it is found throughout most of tropical and southern Africa.
Long-tailed Skipper
A striking skipper with iridescent blue-green body and wing bases and long tail-like projections on the hindwings. It is a strong flier and occasional migrant.
Did You Know?
Known as the bean leaf roller because the caterpillar folds bean leaves into tubular shelters.