Ichneumon Wasp

Forests, woodlands, meadows, and gardens, often found near decaying wood or vegetation where hosts are present.

Adults feed primarily on nectar, pollen, or honeydew. Larvae are parasitic, feeding on the body fluids and tissues of other insects and spiders.

Females use their long antennae to locate hosts hidden beneath bark or soil and use their long ovipositor to deposit eggs inside or on the host.

Generally beneficial to ecosystems and agriculture as natural predators and parasitoids of various pest insects, helping to control their populations. They do not pose a significant risk to humans, though some large species can give a mild sting if mishandled.