🐝 Ants, Bees & Wasps

Spider-hunting Wasp

Anoplius nigerrimus

About Spider-hunting Wasp

A large all-black spider-hunting wasp that drags paralyzed wolf spiders back to its burrow.

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Did You Know?

Paralyzes a wolf spider with a precise sting to the nerve ganglion then drags it backwards to its burrow.

How to Identify Spider-hunting Wasp

Spider-hunting Wasp (Anoplius nigerrimus) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Pompilidae. Adults typically measure 12-18mm.

Spider-hunting Wasp Habitat

Spider-hunting 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.

Spider-hunting Wasp Diet and Feeding

Spider-hunting 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 Spider-hunting Wasp Found?

Spider-hunting 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 Spider-hunting Wasp can be found

Is Spider-hunting Wasp Dangerous?

Spider-hunting 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.

Spider-hunting Wasp Role in Nature

Spider-hunting 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 Spider-hunting Wasp

What does Spider-hunting Wasp look like?

The Spider-hunting Wasp typically measures 12-18mm.

Where is Spider-hunting Wasp found?

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

What does Spider-hunting Wasp eat?

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

Is Spider-hunting Wasp dangerous to humans?

The Spider-hunting 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 Spider-hunting Wasp?

Paralyzes a wolf spider with a precise sting to the nerve ganglion then drags it backwards to its burrow.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Spider-hunting Wasp (Anoplius nigerrimus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/spider-hunting-wasp

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