🐝 Ants, Bees & Wasps

Mason Wasp

Ancistrocerus nigricornis

About Mason Wasp

A small black and yellow solitary wasp that nests in pre-existing holes and hollow stems. It provisions each cell with paralyzed moth caterpillars.

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Did You Know?

It readily uses artificial bee hotels, making it one of the easiest solitary wasps to attract to gardens.

How to Identify Mason Wasp

Mason Wasp (Ancistrocerus nigricornis) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Vespidae. Adults typically measure 10-14 mm.

Mason Wasp Habitat

Mason Wasp is found in underground habitats, particularly across Europe, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Mason Wasp Diet and Feeding

Mason Wasp feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.

Where Is Mason Wasp Found?

Mason Wasp can be found in Europe, Western Asia, where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Mason Wasp can be found

Is Mason Wasp Dangerous?

Mason 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.

Mason Wasp Role in Nature

Mason Wasp plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.

Seasonal Activity

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Mason Wasp

What does Mason Wasp look like?

The Mason Wasp typically measures 10-14 mm.

Where is Mason Wasp found?

The Mason Wasp is found in Europe, Western Asia and typically inhabits underground environments.

What does Mason Wasp eat?

The Mason Wasp feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.

Is Mason Wasp dangerous to humans?

The Mason 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 Mason Wasp?

It readily uses artificial bee hotels, making it one of the easiest solitary wasps to attract to gardens.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Mason Wasp (Ancistrocerus nigricornis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/mason-wasp

MLA:
"Mason Wasp." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/mason-wasp.