Scoliid Wasps are colorful, large, and relatively calm. They’re fun to see and easy to photograph. With iridescent wings and large, colorful spots, they can be as beautiful as butterflies. Like many other bees and wasps, Scoliid Wasps enjoy visiting the Mountain Mint, Rattlesnake Master, and Fireworks Goldenrod.

Noble Scoliid Wasp
Face-deep in the flower!
Nom nom nom nom!
Blue-Winged Scoliid Wasp on Fireworks Goldenrod
Double-Banded Scoliid Wasp on Rattlesnake Master
Double-Banded Scoliid Wasp on Fireworks Goldenrod
Double-Banded Scoliid Wasp

The females dig to find the grubs of Scarab Beetles (think Japanese Beetle or June Bug). When they find one, they sting it to paralyze it and lay one egg on the larva. The young Wasp hatches and eats the grub that Mom provided.

So far, I’ve spotted:

  • Noble Scoliid Wasps (Scolia nobilitata)
  • Double-Banded Scoliid Wasps (Scolia bicincta)
  • Blue-Winged or Two-Spotted Scoliid Wasps (Scolia dubia). According to Bug Guide, the males and females engage in a figure-eight courtship dance.

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