Mediterranean Scoliid Wasp vs Green June Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mediterranean Scoliid Wasp Green June Beetle
Scientific Name Scolia hirta Cotinis nitida
Order Hymenoptera Coleoptera
Family Scoliidae Scarabaeidae
Size 15-25 mm 15-22mm
Habitat Orchards Orchards
Diet Omnivores Fruit Feeders
Regions Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Mediterranean Scoliid Wasp

A black hairy wasp with two prominent yellow abdominal spots common across Mediterranean regions. It parasitizes rose chafer and other scarab beetle larvae.

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Did You Know?

Ancient Greek naturalists were among the first to document this species and its habit of visiting thistle flowers.

Green June Beetle

A large velvety green beetle with bronze margins that buzzes loudly in flight. It feeds on ripe fruit and is attracted to fermentation.

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Did You Know?

Adults are clumsy fliers that regularly crash into people, windows and walls due to their buzzing low-altitude flight.