Colorful Hunter...

This colorful character is a Rusty Spider Wasp aka red-tailed spider hunter, Tachypompilus ferrugineus (don't worry, that won't be on the test).  It preys mostly on wandering spiders, especially wolf spiders. This one has caught and dispatched a large garden spider. And if you look closely at the photo on the left, the spider's abdomen is covered with her eggs. Sadly, her many offspring will be consumed as well. Fletcher and I spotted this tiny drama taking place by the edge of the street. We never know what wonders are waiting for us on our morning walks. This was taken w/my phone since my favorite camera is being repaired. :(  m