Mediterranean Scoliid Wasp vs Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Scoliid Wasp | Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Scolia hirta | Psithyrus vestalis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Scoliidae | Apidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 15-20 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Parasites |
| Regions | Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia | Europe |
| 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.
Did You Know?
Ancient Greek naturalists were among the first to document this species and its habit of visiting thistle flowers.
Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee
A brood parasitic bumblebee that takes over colonies of the Buff-tailed Bumblebee. The female kills or subdues the host queen and uses the workers to raise her own offspring.
Did You Know?
Females infiltrate host bumblebee nests and take them over by force, enslaving the workers to raise cuckoo brood.