For Anyone Interested in the Wildlife of the U.K.
Yellow Ophion
Scientific name: Enicospilus sp.
Size: Approx 20mm long
Distribution: Found throughout the UK.
Months seen: February to November. Mainly active at night and often attracted to lights
Life Span: Approximately 9 - 12 months
Habitat: Woodlands, farmland and gardens
Food: The larvae live and feed inside the caterpillars of noctuid moths
Special features: The Yellow Ophion is a type of ichneumon wasp. It has a red or orange body, antennae and legs. The wings are clear with black veins and two small brown coloured inclusions in the wings. The abdomen is arched giving it a somewhat agressive appearance.
Yellow ophions lay their eggs inside the body of caterpillars through a hair-like ovipositor. They have also been known to use this ovipositor in a defensive way when they feel threatened. The 'sting' can cause some discomfort, so it's possible that the insect injects some irritant.
Related Pages
