European Spider Wasp vs Six-spot Burnet
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Spider Wasp | Six-spot Burnet |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Episyron albonotatum | Zygaena filipendulae |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Pompilidae | Zygaenidae |
| Size | 8-14 mm | 30-40 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, western Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
European Spider Wasp
A medium-sized black spider wasp with white markings that hunts orb-weaving spiders across Europe. It nests in sandy soil near the edges of paths.
Did You Know?
It carries captured spiders by flying short distances while holding them underneath its body.
Six-spot Burnet
A day-flying moth with metallic blue-black forewings bearing six crimson spots. Its bright colours warn predators of its cyanide-based chemical defences.
Did You Know?
Both the larvae and adults contain hydrogen cyanide, making them highly toxic to predators.