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Orange caterpillar parasite wasp
Netelia sp.
-42.5986, 147.249
Field Notes
Description:
Ichneumon wasps differ from typical wasps, which sting in defense, in that the antennae have more segments; typically 16 or more, whereas the others have 13 or fewer. An ichneumon wasp's abdomen is characteristically very elongated, unlike in their relatives the braconids. This lengthened section may also be segmented. Female ichneumon wasps frequently exhibit an ovipositor longer than their body. Ovipositors and stingers are homologous structures; some Ichneumons inject venom along with the egg,
Habitat:
Our house. At least they seem to like to over-winter in the walls of the house, frequently finding their way inside. We're mindful of the females ability to sting, but otherwise just leave them be.
Notes:
Our local species like to parasitize wood boring larvae.
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