Common Potter Wasp vs Tiger Crane Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Common Potter Wasp Tiger Crane Fly
Scientific Name Eumenes fraternus Nephrotoma flavescens
Order Hymenoptera Diptera
Family Vespidae Tipulidae
Size 13-17 mm 13-18 mm body length
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Herbivores
Regions Eastern North America Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Common Potter Wasp

A North American potter wasp that builds small globular mud cells on plant stems and twigs. The female suspends her egg on a silk thread inside the pot before sealing it.

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Did You Know?

The egg is hung on a thread from the ceiling of the pot so the larva can begin eating the paralyzed caterpillars below without being crushed.

Tiger Crane Fly

A striking yellow crane fly with bold black stripes on the thorax. Adults are commonly found basking on sunny foliage in summer.

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Did You Know?

Its bold yellow and black thoracic stripes make it the most colorful European crane fly.