Eumenes potter wasp. Remarkably, even with this striking pattern, can’t get this one down to species. And that’s a wasp curator on iNaturalist talking.
Leucospis affinis, a parasite of mason bees.
Note that she carries her ovipositor flipped up and across her back. I’ve never seen this before.
This is an impressive appendage, which can drill through 7mm of plant material (or cardboard, for those who set up mason bee nest sites).
And look at these massive hind legs!
So great!
Murray Fisher BIllion Oyster Project http://www.bop.nyc
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amazing shots…
WOW! Just wow!