Ichneumon Wasp (Short-tailed)

Natural Habitat

Fields, forests, and gardens, often attracted to artificial lights at night

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Night-active insects that use their long antennae to locate hosts; females lay eggs inside the bodies of caterpillars while they are still alive

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling pest caterpillar populations; they are generally harmless to humans, though females can deliver a weak, needle-like poke if handled roughly

Identified on: 6/19/2026