A tiny amber-colored parasitic wasp dancing on the vegetation

This small ichneumon wasp (family: Ichneumonidae) most likely belongs to the genus Netelia, often known as the orange caterpillar parasite wasps. These slender ichneumonids are easy to recognize by their warm orange or brownish-yellow color, long legs and antennae, and large, prominent eyes. Many species are nocturnal and are often attracted to artificial lights. Like most ichneumon wasps, their larvae develop as parasites of moth and butterfly caterpillars, while the adults feed on nectar. I came across several individuals of this species moving constantly through the vegetation. Photographing them required patience — I had to wait until one of them paused for just half a minute.

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