Arachnospila spissa (Schiødte, 1837)
Generally a common Spider Hunting Wasp, which are typically very difficult subjects to photograph. This Arachnospila spissa was found on a small Hawthorn growing at Sherwood Forest CP in May 2013. Female Arachnospila spissa attack female spiders within their own burrows, then partially block the entrance before re-entering the burrow to sting the spider and laying a single egg. The larva then eats the spider, which is usually only lightly parylised.
.......
 
 
Nottinghamshire (VC56) distribution of Arachnospila spissa
 
 
 
 
The records for the Nottinghamshire distribution map are currently provided by the following contributors - Trevor and Dilys Pendleton. Netherfield Wildlife Group. Trevor and Dilys Pendleton (Sherwood Forest Invertebrate Directory 2014).

You can contribute your own records to help us gain an accurate status of this species in Nottinghamshire. Send an Excel spreadsheet of your records via the 'contact us' link at the top of the homepage.

Updated January 2022

copyright © Trevor and Dilys Pendleton (www.eakringbirds.com) . .
Ants, Bees and Wasps Photo Gallery - Thumbnail version
Ants, Bees and Wasps Photo Gallery - Text version