Goldsmith Beetle vs Large Scoliid Wasp

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Goldsmith Beetle Large Scoliid Wasp
Scientific Name Cotalpa lanigera Megascolia maculata
Order Coleoptera Hymenoptera
Family Scarabaeidae Scoliidae
Size 20-26mm 25-45 mm
Habitat Orchards Orchards
Diet Root Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions North America Southern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Goldsmith Beetle

A beautiful golden-yellow scarab beetle with a metallic luster and fuzzy underside. It is attracted to lights on warm summer nights.

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Did You Know?

Its genus name Cotalpa means golden shield referring to its remarkably bright metallic golden coloration.

Large Scoliid Wasp

Europe's largest wasp, with a massive black body marked with bold yellow spots. Females burrow underground to parasitise rhinoceros beetle larvae.

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Did You Know?

Despite its terrifying size, it is surprisingly docile and rarely stings humans.