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• Ruby–tailed Jewel Wasp

Ruby–tailed Jewel Wasp - Chrysis ignita
Family - Chrysididae
Also known as - Cuckoo Wasp

Photo ©2006 Kurt Kulac
Click photo for a larger image

Found throughout the UK and Europe there are several species of Ruby–Tailed wasps – C. ignita is the one most frequently seen.  The head and thorax are a dazzling greenish–blue, and the abdomen is a fiery red.  In bright light they have a vivid metallic sheen to the body giving rise to the "Jewel" part of their common name.  They are 12–15mm (0.5–0.6in) long and are found in sandy gardens and quarries, heaths and sunlit walls from April to September, essentially anywhere that solitary bees may nest.

They are a parasitoid wasp species laying their eggs in the nests of other solitary bees especially Mason Bees and wasps which are used as a food store by the emerging wasp larvae.  For this reason they are sometimes called "Cuckoo Wasps".  They remain in the nest until fully developed, emerging the following spring as adult wasps.  Once emerged they feed on nectar and pollen living for 9–12 months.  C. ignita is one of a number of very similar Ruby–Tailed Wasp species which are difficult to tell apart; Chrysura hirsuta and Chrysis fulgida are classified as Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.  Their cuticle has a textured appearance rather like a golf ball, it is very tough and is thought to provide some protection should they be attacked by their host.  Some also have a concave abdomen that enables them to roll into a protective ball.

• Other wasp species found in Britain and Europe –
• Common Wasp - Vespula vulgaris, nests in tree cavities, buildings occasionally underground.
• German Wasp - Vespula germanica, the nest is usually sited underground in disused mouse and rat runs, always in shady areas, unusually it may nest above ground.
• Hornet - Vespula crabro, the largest of the wasps and relatively uncommon.  Nests in hollow trees and occasionally buildings.
• Tree Wasp – Vespula sylvestris, nests suspended from the branches of trees or constructed underground.
• Norwegian Wasp – Vespula norvegica, constructs small nests on twigs.
• Cuckoo Wasp – Vespula austriaca, a parasitic wasp usually laying its eggs in the nests of the Red Wasp.
• Red Wasp – Vespula rufa, nests underground.
• Median Wasp – Dolichovespula media and –
• Saxon Wasp – Dolichovespula saxonica, are recent introductions to the UK.

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