This is a Mason Wasp in the sub-family Eumeninae. It is a medium-sized (approximately 3/4 inch in length) black wasp. The petiole in this species is bulbous and has an irregular white mark. There is also a very thin white band on segment 3 of the abdomen. The wings are black with a purple sheen. The wings are held at an upward dihedral angle when the wasp is at rest. Because it has a bulbous petiole it strongly resembles a potter wasp.
Zethus spinipes is uncommon in Fontenelle Forest. It has been photographed in early September nectaring on flowers.
Although the nesting habits of Zethus spinipes are poorly understood, it is closely related to species that use old insect burrows in twigs, wood or in the ground for nests. The female lays an egg on a caterpillar when she places it in a cell.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.