Flower Wasp vs Red-veined Darter

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Flower Wasp Red-veined Darter
Scientific Name Cerceris rybyensis Sympetrum fonscolombii
Order Hymenoptera Odonata
Family Crabronidae Libellulidae
Size 8-14 mm 33-40mm
Habitat Heathland Ponds & Lakes
Diet Predators Predators
Regions Europe Europe, Africa, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Flower Wasp

A solitary wasp that hunts small mining bees to provision its nest. Nests in sandy soil, often in dense aggregations. Distinguished from other wasps by its hunting specialization.

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Did You Know?

Specializes in hunting mining bees (Andrena), catching them on flowers and carrying them back to its burrow.

Red-veined Darter

A striking darter dragonfly with red veins on the leading edge of the wings and a vivid blue underside to the eyes. Males are bright red while females are yellowish. It is a strong migrant.

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Did You Know?

It breeds in temporary pools and can complete its larval development in as little as two months.