CLOSED: Please ID this Bug hauling a spider..........

morganc Austin, TX(Zone 8b) Jul 11, 2008

We watched this bug haul a baby Tarantula half way across our yard. The bug even left him for a bit while he reconnoitered ahead, then flew back to pick up his prize.

He kind of looks like a giant ant with wings.

Any clue?

Post #5240965

Quote

todgor West Caldwell, NJ(Zone 6b) Jul 11, 2008

Considering where you are and what he is doing, I'd say that's a tarantula wasp:

http://hillsidephotos.com/photogallery/Tarantula/PICT4379sw.jpg

Post #5242175

Quote

morganc Austin, TX(Zone 8b) Jul 11, 2008

Amazing..........

They just go after the big furry guys? Nothing else?

Post #5242258

Quote

todgor West Caldwell, NJ(Zone 6b) Jul 11, 2008

I did a search and reading this I was simultaneously amused and horrified!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tarantula_hawk

Drunk off fermented fruit? LOL!

Post #5242426

Quote

morganc Austin, TX(Zone 8b) Jul 11, 2008

EW!

Post #5242464

Quote

Andy_pandy tucson, AZ(Zone 8a) Jul 16, 2008

tarantula wasp are fascinating. first they dig a hole, not easy in the desert. Then they go off in search of prey which they paralysis and then drag it back to the hole, sometimes long distances i've watch one go 20 feet, then they lay their eggs on/in it, I'm not sure which. Then stuff it down the hole and cover it up. I believe the prey is still alive, fresh meat for the babies to eat. All very ghoulish. and yet again the females.

Post #5269624

Quote

Please or sign up to post.

Back to Forum Homepage