Sand Wasp Strepsipteran vs Fox Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sand Wasp Strepsipteran Fox Moth
Scientific Name Paraxenos lugubris Macrothylacia rubi
Order Strepsiptera Lepidoptera
Family Xenidae Lasiocampidae
Size 2.5-4.0 mm (males) Wingspan 50-65mm
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Beaches & Coastal
Diet Parasites Herbivores
Regions Europe, Africa Europe
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Sand Wasp Strepsipteran

A strepsipteran parasite of sand wasps in the genus Bembix. It is found in sandy coastal areas where its host wasps nest.

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Did You Know?

Parasitized sand wasps often have visibly protruding strepsipteran puparia between their abdominal segments.

Fox Moth

A richly colored russet-brown moth. The large hairy black caterpillar is commonly seen crossing paths in autumn.

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Did You Know?

The large dark caterpillar is one of the most commonly seen caterpillars in autumn as it searches for a hibernation site.