Batesian mimic

...knowing how the mere mention of cockroaches can affect people, I was stunned by the interest in yesterday's blip. Sincere thanks.

Today saw a return to windier weather and, with a busy day, we only had time for a short local walk before the light went. It continues to be a delight to see so many plants still in flower, many of them on new growth.

Ichneumon wasps continue to be the most prolific of the obvious flying insects. It is probably worth mentioning that these are not actually wasps but are related in the same way that bees and ants are. The problem is, that the common name Ichneumon could as equally refer to the Egyptian Mongoose, Indian Grey Mongoose, or even the enemy of the medieval dragon, as it could to the insect. Consequently, Ichneumonidae are sometimes called ichneumon flies or, more commonly, ichneumon wasps, despite being neither flies nor wasps.

This one, Amblyteles armatorius, is one of our largest. Being approximately 15mm, it is a similar size to the common and german wasps. This is a female, which is quite differently marked to a male. The yellow and black markings make it a Batesian mimic - a type of mimicry used by a species to protect it from predation by appearing similar to unpalatable or harmful species. It has no sting and is harmless to humans. They are quite common and are often found feeding on pollen, especially members of the Apiaceae family such as this wild parsnip.

The light wasn't great but, what with the stiff breeze, I was more than happy to get this shot as it has plenty of relevant detail. In particular, the long, thin, tiny waist between the thorax and abdomen, and the long antennae, both of which are characteristic features of Ichneumonidae...