Genus Bembix
This large wasp (about 1 inch) didn't mind my getting up close and personal while it gathered nectar
from the flowers at Antelope Island. They have a reputation for being kind of cranky, especially if
you disturb their underground nest. Notice the beak-like mouth. Digger Wasps are under the
order Hymnoptera, family Crabronidae, and are beneficial insects, not only for pollination,
but for feeding flies (ick) to their larvae (info courtesy of Bugguide.net)
© Carol Davis 6-11-06
This large wasp (about 1 inch) didn't mind my getting up close and personal while it gathered nectar
from the flowers at Antelope Island. They have a reputation for being kind of cranky, especially if
you disturb their underground nest. Notice the beak-like mouth. Digger Wasps are under the
order Hymnoptera, family Crabronidae, and are beneficial insects, not only for pollination,
but for feeding flies (ick) to their larvae (info courtesy of Bugguide.net)
© Carol Davis 6-11-06