Banded Ichneumon vs Lesser Earwig
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Banded Ichneumon | Lesser Earwig |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ichneumon xanthorius | Labia minor |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Dermaptera |
| Family | Ichneumonidae | Spongiphoridae |
| Size | 14-18 mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Gardens |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, North America, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Banded Ichneumon
A boldly patterned black-and-yellow parasitoid wasp commonly found in European gardens. It parasitizes large moth caterpillars that pupate in soil.
Did You Know?
Despite its wasp-like warning colors, it rarely stings and is harmless to humans.
Lesser Earwig
The smallest European earwig and one of the few that readily flies. It is often found in compost heaps and manure piles where it feeds on fly larvae.
Did You Know?
Despite its tiny size, this earwig is one of the best fliers in the order and is regularly attracted to artificial lights.