Ichneumon Wasps
What are they?
The ichneumons are an abundant group of insects with well over 3,000 species known in North America. Size varies from very small to some of the largest of all hymenopterans and all species are parasitic on other insects. Many species parasitize the caterpillars of butterflies and moths, while larger species parasitize bees and wasps. The females of several species have surprisingly long ovipositors which can look very intimidating if you mistake these for stings!
Identification
In part due to the sheer number of species and also to the very close similarity of some species, identification of some groups to the species level can be very difficult - sometimes impossible from photographs. Photos should be taken of insects from all angles, especially above and the side, even then things can be tricky! Concentrate on overall color, abdomen markings (if any) and details of leg segments and antennae.
Itoplectis conquisitor
A common and widespread species throughout most of North America. Note leg color and markings, together with white bands on abdomen. Females parasitize the caterpillars of a number of lepidopteran species.
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Cryptanura banchiformis
A common and widespread species throughout most of North America. Note leg color and markings, together with white bands on abdomen. Females parasitize the caterpillars of a number of lepidopteran species.
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Ophion sp.
The Ophion species are often collectively called short-tailed Ichneumons, since the ovipositor of the female barely extends beyond the tip of the abdomen. Thus, they do not have the long 'tail' typical of many other ichneumons. These are very common and widespread insects throughout most of North America. They are rather plain, orange-brown in color and commonly get attracted to lights at night. Females parasitize the caterpillars of a number of lepidopteran species.
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