So what is this crazy-looking insect? Have you seen one before? This is the common scorpionfly. To me, there is nothing common about the look of this little guy.
Common Scorpionfly General Information
| Common Name: | Common Scorpionfly |
| Scientific Name: | Panorpa communis |
| Size: | Body length of about (1.2 inches), a wingspan of (1.4 inches) |
| Markings: | Black and yellow body, with a red head and tail |
| Habitat: | Around nettle plants & hedgerows |
| Active: | May – September |
| Diet: | Dead insects & aphids |
How It Got Its Name
Will not bite or sting and does not bother plants or crops. Eats dead insects and live aphids. Eating aphids on plants is always a plus 🙂
The scorpionfly receives its name for the scorpion-like appearance of the male’s clasper during mating season, it is not a stinger.
Garden Friend or Foe?
Will not bite or sting and does not bother plants or crops. Eats dead insects and live aphids. Eating aphids on plants is always a plus 🙂
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