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Photo#1310974
Wood Wasp Type? - Psorthaspis legata

Wood Wasp Type? - Psorthaspis legata
Flower Mound, Denton County, Texas, USA
October 16, 2016
Size: 5mm body
This one was so small I would not have noticed it if it were not brightly striped orange/black/white and moving so quickly at all times on the ground; it did not fly the whole 10 minutes. It would poke its head into various holes in the ground. The closest resemblance is to a wood wasp, but with the colorful, pointed rear end. Unusual white markings on legs. I could not get a full front face shot. We have a wild front yard with lots of Post Oaks and ground mulch from leaves; sandy soil.

Images of this individual: tag all
Wood Wasp Type? - Psorthaspis legata Wood Wasp Type? - Psorthaspis legata

Moved tentatively
Moved from ID Request.

I agree with Bob. According to Nick Fensler, "The banded wings, orange head ... and cream-colored stripes on the apical abdominal tergites separate this from other eastern Psorthapis."

Of course, Texas might not be considered "eastern"--and thus the tentative move.

 
Spider Wasp
Many thanks for your time!

Female - Spider Wasp
I believe that this might be a female Psorthaspis legata. (eastern range) Let's wait for an expert.

 
Ornate Spider Wasp
http://bugguide.net/node/view/32866
The legs look more like this (white lines)

 
Nope
What you are seeing there on the legs, is the reflective pubescence. (very short hairs) This is a common feature of both species. Check the abdominal bands and you will see that they are slightly different.

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