Xiphydriid Maple Borer vs Pacific Cuckoo Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Xiphydriid Maple Borer | Pacific Cuckoo Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xiphydria maculata | Chrysis pellucidula |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Xiphydriidae | Chrysididae |
| Size | 10-18 mm | 6-10 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Heathland |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | North America | Western North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Xiphydriid Maple Borer
A slender wood wasp with a long, narrow neck region and dark body spotted with pale markings. Females bore into hardwood trees, especially maples.
Did You Know?
Xiphydriid wood wasps are rarely seen despite being widespread, as they are secretive insects that spend most of their life cycle deep inside wood.
Pacific Cuckoo Wasp
A brightly metallic cuckoo wasp with green-blue head and thorax and a coppery red abdomen. It parasitizes solitary mason bees and wasps in the western US.
Did You Know?
It times its nest infiltration perfectly, sneaking in while the host wasp is away collecting provisions.