DIGITAL FIELD GUIDE: WASPS (Order: Hymenoptera)
Tachypompilus sp.
<-- from Key Location 18a
Identification features: Tachypompilus is a large, red spider-wasp about an inch long. Her wings are black and they flick back and forth across her back as she moves from flower to flower sipping nectar. Tachypompilus is recognized in the field by her large size and overall red color.
Nesting habit and prey: Tachypompilus is a solitary, ground-nesting wasp. Females excavate and provision the nest. After the hole is prepared, she hunts for spiders to provision the nest and provide food for the wasp larvae when it hatches.
Tachypompilus as pollinator: The female Tachypompilus collects spiders for her progeny, but both sexes sip nectar for their own sustenance. This wasp has been observed on plants with shallow flowers such as seepwillow, Texas kidneywood, and soapberry.
