Short-tailed Ichneumon Wasp

Woodlands, gardens, and fields often near light sources or urban areas

Adults feed on plant nectar and honeydew; larvae are internal parasitoids of caterpillars

Primarily nocturnal and strongly attracted to artificial lights; they are solitary insects and do not form colonies

Generally beneficial as they control pest caterpillar populations; they are not aggressive but can deliver a mild sting if handled roughly