That, My Friend, Is An Ichneumon

In my Bloom Day post for this month, I posted a photo of an unknown Solidago with a friend. 

I just hate not knowing what something is, so I hunted around on the 'net for a site to help me ID that bug.  I found a great site, called What's That Bug that can help ID insects of North America.  Unfortunately, they are transferring to a new format this week, and when I just checked, they hadn't worked all the (ahem) bugs out, yet.  I couldn't get the photos to show up, so the site isn't useful quite yet.  I was also somewhat dismayed to find it takes a lot longer to load than it did just a few days ago. Because it's photo intensive (or will be), you might not be able to use it if you use dial up.  If you want to try it, and maybe save it for further reference, go here. 

I got the ID by e-mailing Daniel, the Bug Man who runs the site, with a photo of our friend.  His one-word reply was "ichneumon," and it's pronounced ik new mon with the accent on the "new."  I did a little online research and discovered these things about ichneumons.

Ichneumons are related to wasps and they are parasitic on many varieties of other insects, many of which are harmful.  The long ovipositor on the abdomen of the female (the one in my photo is a female) can penetrate insect infested tree trunks to insert eggs into the bodies of larvae infesting the tree.  I find that amazing, because the ichneumon I photographed looks so very delicate. I guess she's not that delicate after all.  Not all ichneumons parasitize tree-burrowing insects. Some parasitize caddisflies or certain butterflies. Still, ichneumons are considered beneficials.

This sighting was the first time I'd ever seen one of these insects in my garden, and I hope it won't be the last. I wonder what new friends I can add to my list next year?

Comments

[Dave]

It looks like a good bug! You never know sometimes what is good and what is bad. They are so many beneficial bugs out there that just aren't commonly known. Good post!

[Robin Wedewer]

I find that identifying bugs is one of the most difficult tasks. I have about three bugs in baggies sitting on my desk from this summer waiting for me to find names for them. (I hear you. "Oooooh, gross!")

I will try your resources though. I would very much like to know the names of my enemies!

Robin Wedewer
National Gardening Examiner (and chicken lover)

[Gail]

Hey there! I thought I left a message here! I must be losing it or them. Let's blame blogger. Great photo and how like a scientist type to give you such a succinct answer!

Gail

[Layanee]

Nice shot of that bug! I will keep my eyes open for them in my garden!

[Frances]

Hi Kim, way to get to the bottom of things. I have used the What's That Bug site many times and love it. I find myself looking at all the photos even after the one that was needing an ID had been named. Your photo was fabulous.

Frances
http://fairegarden.wordpress.com/