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European beewolf

European beewolf

Philanthus triangulum

A species of Beewolves, Also known as Bee-eating philanthus, Beewolf

The beewolf (Philanthus triangulum) belongs to the family Wasp family Crabronidae in the insect order Hymenoptera (Hymenoptera). From around mid-June, the black-and-yellow insects can be observed, which can be recognized by their large heads, the thicker feelers in the middle, the conspicuous grave bristles in the females, and the hissing flight, similar to that of the hoverflies. The body length of the somewhat larger bee-size beewolf females is 13 to 18 millimeters, but that of the males is only 8 to 10 millimeters.

Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the European beewolf sting humans?
Human Stinging
General Info About European beewolf
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Attributes of European beewolf
Colors
Black
Yellow
Habitat
sand dune; lowland heath
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, honey, plant sap, occasional insects
Larva Food Source
Honeybees, other bees, occasionally other hymenoptera
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The European beewolf has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The European beewolf can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The European beewolf feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
The European beewolf typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of European beewolf
It has a wide distribution in the Afrotropical and Western Palearctic zoogeographical regions from Scandinavia to South Africa.
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Distribution Area of European beewolf
Scandinavia, South Africa
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Life Cycle of European beewolf
Egg The egg of the european beewolf is minute and ellipsoid, often laid in concealed locations near a food source. Initially, it is creamy white and lacks mobility or sensory organs, focusing entirely on incubation.
Larva The larva of european beewolf appears wormlike, with a voracious appetite for nourishment to fuel growth. It lacks wings, has a soft body, and may possess distinct color patterns that serve as camouflage.
Pupal In this phase, european beewolf undergoes transformation within a cocoon. The immobile pupa undergoes significant internal changes, and adult features like wings and legs gradually form under the protective casing.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult european beewolf's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult focuses on mating and laying eggs.
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Adult Size of European beewolf
1.2 - 1.8 cm
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Predators of European beewolf Larvae
Ants, beetles, birds, spiders
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Predators of Adult European beewolf
Birds, spiders, rodents, praying mantises
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Interesting Facts About European beewolf
European beewolf can paralyze bees with their sting and store them in underground chambers as live food for their offspring.
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Scientific Classification of European beewolf
Tips for Finding European beewolf
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Youth Habitat of European beewolf
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of European beewolf
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Freshwater Habitats
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How Can You Attract European beewolf
Considering european beewolf's carnivorous diet during its larval stage, suitable trap food could include small insects or larvae.
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Habitat Preferences of European beewolf Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of european beewolf are usually found underground in burrows excavated by the female, typically in sandy soils well exposed to sunlight. These are often in meadows or gardens. The adult european beewolf, after its complete metamorphosis, is commonly seen in areas with abundant flowering plants, as it feeds on nectar and pollen. When searching for the different growth stages of european beewolf, one would inspect sunny, open grounds for their nests, and flowering fields or gardens to observe the foraging adults. The use of a hand trowel might be helpful in gently excavating suspected nesting sites to find larvae, while a net can assist in catching adults for closer examination.
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When is the Best Time to Observe European beewolf
The best time to find european beewolf is during warm, sunny days when adults are actively hunting or mating.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe European beewolf
Dry weather is more suitable for finding european beewolf, as it does not thrive in wet conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find European beewolf at Different Life Stages
Larva European beewolf larvae are often found in underground burrows. Locate them by carefully digging in sandy soils near nesting areas of adults.
Pupal Pupae of european beewolf may be within the larval burrows or in the surrounding soil. Gentle excavation in the vicinity of known larval habitats can lead to their discovery.
Adult To find adult european beewolf, observe flowering plants as they hunt for prey or seek nectar. They are often seen in open, sunny areas.
Are European beewolf harmful?
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The european beewolf can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are European beewolf harmful to humans?

Although the european beewolf huge, it is not offensive to humans. When attacked, they will choose to fly away rather than fight back. If they are completely irritated, they may sting. In addition, they have the ability to bite, because the jaw is large (but usually not bite).
Harmful Effects of European beewolf
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Toxic to Animals
Icon toxic for
Human Stinging
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Toxic to Animals

European beewolf presents a risk of mild poisoning primarily through its bite. As an adult, it uses venom delivered by fangs as a defense mechanism or to subdue prey. While its mild toxicity may cause slight discomfort or localized reactions in humans, smaller mammals like cats and dogs can experience more pronounced symptoms. Even larger insects may be affected by the toxins, showing varying degrees of vulnerability.

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Does the European beewolf sting humans?

European beewolf typically stings for defense rather than aggression. When threatened by humans, the species may sting to protect itself or its nest. Stings mainly occur during accidental human encounters or when nests are disturbed. Unlike bees, european beewolf can sting multiple times without suffering physical harm, as it retains its sting. The effects on humans are painful localized reactions but rarely severe.

More Effects of European beewolf

Beneficial Effects of European beewolf
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Smell, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Collect Pollen To Feed Offspring
European beewolf is a solitary wasp that helps in pollination. It is attracted to flowers by their scent and shape. While the adults consume nectar and pollen, they also collect pollen to provision their underground nests for their larvae, inadvertently transferring pollen between flowers.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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