Apache Paper Wasp vs Mexican Cactus Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Apache Paper Wasp | Mexican Cactus Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Polistes apachus | Copestylum mexicanum |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Vespidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 18-25 mm | 12-18 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Deserts & Drylands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Southwestern United States and northern Mexico | North America, Central America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Apache Paper Wasp
A large paper wasp of the American Southwest with yellow and reddish-brown coloring. It constructs open paper comb nests in sheltered locations like building overhangs.
Did You Know?
It is one of the largest paper wasps in North America and is particularly common around desert homes and ranch buildings.
Mexican Cactus Fly
A large, dark hoverfly whose larvae develop in decaying cactus tissue. Adults are strong fliers visiting flowers in arid landscapes.
Did You Know?
Larvae play an important ecological role in recycling decaying cactus material.