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Golden-reined wasp

Golden-reined wasp

Sphex habenus

A species of Digger wasps, Also known as Golden rein wasp

The golden-reined wasp (Sphex habenus) is named from the metallic, gold shine you can see accenting their bodies. Adults feed on nectar, where they may take this and return it back to the underground burrow nests. You are most likely to see them hanging about some flowers.

Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
General Info About Golden-reined wasp
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Attributes of Golden-reined wasp
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
field
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, pollen, small insects, honey, aphid secretions
Larva Food Source
Caterpillars, beetles, crickets, grasshoppers, spiders
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Pollinator
The Golden-reined wasp is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Golden-reined wasp 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 Golden-reined wasp 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 Golden-reined wasp
It is found in the United States.
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Distribution Area of Golden-reined wasp
Southeastern United States, Mexico
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Life Cycle of Golden-reined wasp
Egg The egg of golden-reined wasp is small, often oval, and laid in a protected environment. Color and size vary slightly, but the egg stage is mostly a period of internal cell differentiation setting the developmental foundation.
Larva The larva of golden-reined wasp is generally worm-like, lacking wings and mature reproductive organs, focused on feeding and growth. It goes through several molts, increasing in size and occasionally changing in coloration.
Pupal During the pupal stage, golden-reined wasp undergoes a complete transformation enclosed within a pupal casing. Its shape, structure, and color are dramatically reorganized as it prepares for adulthood, with external changes less visible.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult golden-reined wasp is characterized by wings, hardened exoskeleton, and reproductive capability. Its color and size signify maturity, with increased mobility and behavior aimed at reproduction and survival.
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Adult Size of Golden-reined wasp
2 - 3 cm
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Predators of Golden-reined wasp Larvae
Ants, predatory beetles, spiders
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Predators of Adult Golden-reined wasp
Birds, rodents, spiders, reptiles
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Scientific Classification of Golden-reined wasp
Tips for Finding Golden-reined wasp
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Adult Habitat of Golden-reined wasp
Deserts and Arid Regions, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Golden-reined wasp Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of golden-reined wasp are typically found in underground nests constructed by the adult female, often in sandy or loose soil, where they feed on provisions left by the mother. As for the adults, they are commonly seen flying in open, sunny areas with flowers since they feed on nectar and are involved in the pollination process. Searching for golden-reined wasp requires visiting areas such as gardens, meadows, and fields during warm months when flowering plants are abundant. Observing the ground for small mounds of earth can lead to their nests, while flowering plants might reveal the presence of adults.
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Harmful Effects of Golden-reined wasp
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Toxic to Animals
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Toxic to Animals

Golden-reined wasp has a mild venom that it delivers through its fangs when biting. This venom commonly causes discomfort rather than severe harm to animals such as humans, dogs, cats, and small mammals. While adult golden-reined wasp are the ones with this toxic feature, the effects are generally not life-threatening. Insects, being significantly smaller, can be more severely affected.

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Beneficial Effects of Golden-reined wasp
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Offspring
Diets
Caterpillars
Golden-reined wasp has a unique approach to ensuring their offspring's survival. As adults, these predatory insects seek out caterpillars, paralyzing them with a precise sting. The immobilized prey is then stored with the egg, providing a fresh meal for the hatching larva. This not only sustains the larva but also reduces the population of pest caterpillars.
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