Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp vs Rat Flea
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp | Rat Flea |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Scolia dubia | Xenopsylla brasiliensis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Scoliidae | Pulicidae |
| Size | 18-25 mm | 1.5-2.5 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Eastern North America | Africa, South America, India |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp
A black and reddish-brown wasp with iridescent blue wings commonly seen on flowers in late summer. It parasitizes green June beetle and Japanese beetle grubs.
Did You Know?
It is one of the best natural controls for Japanese beetle grubs, which are major lawn and garden pests.
Rat Flea
A tropical rat flea found across Africa and South America that can transmit plague. It is second to the oriental rat flea in importance as a plague vector.
Did You Know?
Despite its name suggesting Brazilian origin, it is most commonly found on rats throughout sub-Saharan Africa.