Field Digger Wasp

Mellinus arvensis

Description

Body length 7 - 14mm. This wasp has a very glossy yellow and black abdomen.

Habitat

Woodland edge, hedgerows and scrubby areas where there are sandy or clay soils. The females can be seen catching flies to stock their breeding burrows.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in Britain. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

June to September.

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - female - August 20th 2017

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - female - August 20th 2017

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - female - August 20th 2017

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - female - September 11th 2020

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - female - September 11th 2020

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - female - September 11th 2020

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - male - August 20th 2017

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - male - August 20th 2017

  • Field Digger Wasp - Mellinus arvensis - male - August 20th 2017