Penguin Droppings

By gen2

(Probably) A Black Slip Wasp

The doubt suggested in my title is because there are a couple of other ichneumon wasps that are virtually identical in appearance and cannot be told apart from a photograph.

This one thought it could avoid being blipped by landing on the top of my camera where the lens couldn't see it.  Fortunately I tempted it onto a wall without it flying off.  It even stayed still when I switched to macro mode and put the lens right up close and personal with it.

NB  The spike on its tail is NOT a stinger, but an ovipositor for egg-laying.  It is harmless to humans.

Probably a black slip wasp, Pimpla rufipes. (female)

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