Cellophane Bee vs Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cellophane Bee | Blue-winged Scoliid Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Colletes thoracicus | Scolia dubia |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Colletidae | Scoliidae |
| Size | 10-12 mm | 18-25 mm |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Eastern North America | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Cellophane Bee
A spring-flying plasterer bee native to eastern North America with dense reddish-brown thoracic hair. It lines its brood cells with a secreted polyester-like film.
Did You Know?
The transparent polyester lining it secretes is waterproof, fungus-resistant, and chemically similar to commercial plastic wrap.
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.