Boxelder Bug vs African Spider Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Boxelder Bug | African Spider Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Boisea trivittata | Hemipepsis capensis |
| Order | Hemiptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Rhopalidae | Pompilidae |
| Size | 11-14 mm | 30-50 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | North America | Southern Africa |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Boxelder Bug
A black and red bug that forms large aggregations on and around boxelder trees in autumn. It is commonly seen warming itself on sunny building walls before entering structures to overwinter. It is harmless but considered a nuisance pest.
Did You Know?
Thousands of individuals can aggregate on the south-facing walls of buildings on warm autumn days, creating dramatic displays before entering homes to overwinter in wall voids.
African Spider Wasp
A very large blue-black wasp with bright orange wings that hunts baboon spiders. It is one of Africa's largest solitary wasps.
Did You Know?
A single female can overpower and paralyze a baboon spider three times her own weight with a precisely placed sting.