New wasp species found for first time in Belgium

Nature organisation Natuurpunt has discovered a species of digger wasp that was never before found in Belgium. The insect was spotted during research on wild bees in sand quarries in the Flemish Kempen region.

There are currently 198 species of digger wasp known in Belgium. In the summer of this year, Natuurpunt was able to add the Nysson distinguendus to the list. The species belongs to the group of parasitic digger wasps and probably lays its eggs in the nests of other species of digger wasps. The offspring eat the food provided by the host.

According to Natuurpunt, digger wasps are very useful insects because they provide a natural balance. In fact, adult females kill other insects and bring them to their nest as food for their offspring. For instance, many species hunt aphids, while others specifically choose flies, beetles or caterpillars.

The nesting behaviour of digger wasps is similar to that of wild bees. Most species nest underground and prefer places where the soil is sufficiently open. A smaller proportion of species nest above ground in dead wood. Digger wasps are found in a wide variety of habitats, but most species prefer warmer, drier areas.

^{#FlandersNewsService | Golden digger wasp (Sphex funerarius) digs its nest in the sandy soil, at the Döberitzer Heide nature reserve in Germany © BELGA PHOTO IMAGEBROKER}