Common Pimpline Wasp vs Giant Swallowtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Pimpline Wasp Giant Swallowtail
Scientific Name Pimpla hypochondriaca Papilio cresphontes
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Ichneumonidae Papilionidae
Size 10-15 mm 100-160 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Parasitoids Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia North America, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Pimpline Wasp

A stout black parasitoid wasp that attacks moth and butterfly pupae. It is one of the most frequently encountered ichneumonids in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Females inject venom that permanently paralyzes the host pupa before laying an egg on it.

Giant Swallowtail

The largest butterfly in North America with dark brown wings crossed by yellow bands. Larvae resemble bird droppings for camouflage.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillars are called Orange Dogs because they can be pests in citrus orchards.