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Mammoth Wasp (Megascolia maculata flavifrons)

These Mammoth Wasps are the largest wasp in Europe. This is a female and they can reach 6 cm (2.4"). The males are smaller. It feeds on flower nectar and is parasitic of the European Rhinoceros beetle larva. It stings the larva to paralyse it, then lays it's eggs in it's outer skin.

 

They are not at all dangerous to people.

 

Taken in the Costa Blanca, Spain.

 

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Uploaded on June 21, 2016
Taken on May 25, 2016