Hump-Backed Beewolf
ExploreInsects
Hump-Backed Beewolf
philanthus gibbosus
The Hump-Backed Beewolf is a fascinating insect that hunts bees! It uses its clever skills to catch its food and is known for its unique hump on its back.
Habitat: Hump-Backed Beewolves can be found in sandy areas and meadows where bees are abundant.
Appearance
The Hump-Backed Beewolf has a black body adorned with bright yellow markings, especially on its abdomen, which tapers slightly. It features a noticeable 'hump' on its thorax and smoky wings, making it easily distinguishable from other wasps.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHymenopteraFamilyCrabronidaeGenusPhilanthus
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Each female beewolf can dig multiple tunnels, each housing several bee-filled cells.
Female beewolves carefully stock their underground nurseries with paralyzed bees!
Male beewolves often mark plants with scent to attract females and defend their territory!
They sometimes 'test' their burrows by buzzing loudly to check for vibrations.
Special abilities
Ability
Paralyzing Sting
Hump-Backed Beewolf can paralyze prey with its powerful venomous stinger, ensuring a fresh food supply for its hungry larvae.
Ability
Master Digger
Hump-Backed Beewolf can excavate intricate burrows in sandy soil because its strong legs and mandibles are adapted for digging.
Ability
Chemical Tracker
Hump-Backed Beewolf can locate specific bee species by sensing their unique chemical cues, helping it find preferred prey.
Ability
Food Preserver
Hump-Backed Beewolf can apply a special antibacterial secretion to its paralyzed prey, keeping it fresh for its developing young.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 15-30 mm
- Size
- 8-15 mm
- Lifespan
- 20-40 days
- Flight Speed
- 25 km/h
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adult beewolves drink nectar, but hunt and paralyze various bees to feed their hungry larvae.
Age differences: Adults feed on nectar, while larvae consume paralyzed bees brought by the mother.
Primary Foods
- Honey bees
- Sweat bees
- Bumblebees
- Flower nectar
Foraging Method
- Pursuit
Ecological connections
hunts
Honey bee
Apis mellifera
Primary prey item for provisioning beewolf larvae.
hunts
Common eastern bumblebee
Bombus impatiens
Larger bees occasionally targeted as prey for larvae.
hunts
Sweat bee
Halictus ligatus
Smaller bees often targeted for larval provisions.
depends on
Canada goldenrod
Solidago canadensis
Adult beewolves feed on nectar from its abundant flowers.
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Carnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of animal tissue.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
Bee HunterBee WolfHumpbacked Wasps
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hump-Backed Beewolf's wingspan?
15-30 mm
How big is Hump-Backed Beewolf?
8-15 mm
How long does Hump-Backed Beewolf live?
20-40 days
How fast can Hump-Backed Beewolf fly?
25 km/h
What does Hump-Backed Beewolf eat?
Adult beewolves drink nectar, but hunt and paralyze various bees to feed their hungry larvae.
Where is Hump-Backed Beewolf usually found?
Hump-Backed Beewolves can be found in sandy areas and meadows where bees are abundant.
How does Hump-Backed Beewolf hunt?
Pursuit
How many legs does Hump-Backed Beewolf have?
6
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