Spider-hunting Wasp vs Whirligig Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Spider-hunting Wasp | Whirligig Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anoplius nigerrimus | Gyrinus natator |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Pompilidae | Gyrinidae |
| Size | 12-18mm | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Spider-hunting Wasp
A large all-black spider-hunting wasp that drags paralyzed wolf spiders back to its burrow.
Did You Know?
Paralyzes a wolf spider with a precise sting to the nerve ganglion then drags it backwards to its burrow.
Whirligig Beetle
A small, oval, shiny black beetle that spins in rapid circles on the water surface. Its eyes are divided in two, allowing it to see above and below water simultaneously.
Did You Know?
Whirligig beetles have uniquely split compound eyes, with one pair looking above the waterline and another pair looking below it at the same time.