Sharp-tailed Bee vs Netelia Ichneumon Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Sharp-tailed Bee | Netelia Ichneumon Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Coelioxys conoidea | Netelia melanura |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Megachilidae | Ichneumonidae |
| Size | 12-15 mm | 14-18 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Underground |
| Diet | Parasites | Parasitoids |
| Regions | Europe, North Africa | Europe |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
Sharp-tailed Bee
A cleptoparasitic bee with a sharply pointed abdomen used to pierce the cell walls of leafcutter bee nests. Females lay their eggs directly into provisioned host cells.
Did You Know?
The female's dagger-like abdomen tip is so sharp it can slice through multiple layers of leaf cell walls to deposit an egg.
Netelia Ichneumon Wasp
A large orange ichneumon wasp attracted to light at night. Parasitizes noctuid moth caterpillars. Has a distinctive compressed, blade-like abdomen.
Did You Know?
Regularly enters houses at night, attracted by lights, and can give a mild sting if handled.