Sand Wasp vs Xyelid Sawfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sand Wasp Xyelid Sawfly
Scientific Name Bembix rostrata Xyela julii
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Crabronidae Xyelidae
Size 15-22 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Pollen Feeders
Regions Europe, North Africa, Central Asia Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Sand Wasp

A robust wasp that digs burrows in sandy soil and provisions them with flies. It progressively feeds its larvae fresh prey over several days.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most solitary wasps, the mother continues to care for and feed her larvae after hatching.

Xyelid Sawfly

A tiny, delicate sawfly with a characteristic elongated third antennal segment. It is one of the most primitive living Hymenoptera, with fossils dating back to the Triassic.

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Did You Know?

Xyelidae is the oldest extant family of Hymenoptera, with fossils known from over 200 million years ago.