🐝 Ants, Bees & Wasps

European Spider Wasp

Episyron albonotatum

About European Spider Wasp

A medium-sized black spider wasp with white markings that hunts orb-weaving spiders across Europe. It nests in sandy soil near the edges of paths.

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Did You Know?

It carries captured spiders by flying short distances while holding them underneath its body.

How to Identify European Spider Wasp

European Spider Wasp (Episyron albonotatum) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Pompilidae. Adults typically measure 8-14 mm.

European Spider Wasp Habitat

European Spider Wasp is found in beaches & coastal habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

European Spider Wasp Diet and Feeding

European Spider Wasp is a predatory species that actively hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates. As a predator, it helps control populations of pest species and maintains ecological balance.

Where Is European Spider Wasp Found?

European Spider Wasp can be found in Europe, where it inhabits beaches & coastal environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where European Spider Wasp can be found

Is European Spider Wasp Dangerous?

European Spider Wasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

European Spider Wasp Role in Nature

European Spider Wasp serves as a natural predator, helping to control populations of other insects. Predatory insects are valuable in both natural ecosystems and agriculture, where they reduce the numbers of pest species without the need for chemical pesticides.

Seasonal Activity

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About European Spider Wasp

What does European Spider Wasp look like?

The European Spider Wasp typically measures 8-14 mm.

Where is European Spider Wasp found?

The European Spider Wasp is found in Europe and typically inhabits beaches & coastal environments.

What does European Spider Wasp eat?

The European Spider Wasp is a predator that hunts and feeds on other insects and small invertebrates.

Is European Spider Wasp dangerous to humans?

The European Spider Wasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.

What is an interesting fact about European Spider Wasp?

It carries captured spiders by flying short distances while holding them underneath its body.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). European Spider Wasp (Episyron albonotatum). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/european-spider-wasp

MLA:
"European Spider Wasp." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/european-spider-wasp.