I'm afraid that's not Ophion obscuratus, Alan. There are 100+ species of nocturnal ichneumonid wasp which look like this and only one or two can be safely identified without critical examination.
As it happens, O.obscuratus is the easiest because it has very obvious markings on its thorax which can only be confused with one other UK species. See here for a picture of obscuratus: http://upperthamesmoths.blogspot.com/2018/01/spring-usher.html
I'm afraid that's not Ophion obscuratus, Alan. There are 100+ species of nocturnal ichneumonid wasp which look like this and only one or two can be safely identified without critical examination.
ReplyDeleteAs it happens, O.obscuratus is the easiest because it has very obvious markings on its thorax which can only be confused with one other UK species. See here for a picture of obscuratus:
http://upperthamesmoths.blogspot.com/2018/01/spring-usher.html
Why is it unwelcome in the trap? At least it is away from caterpillars! All adds to the interest of running a light.
DeleteWhile running a trap in France this year, I trapped a Praying Mantis and a Stick insect! Who needs moths?
ReplyDeleteThanks all!
ReplyDeleteI was visited by a badger once. It didn't go into the trap, 'though.
ReplyDeleteNow you're all getting very silly!
ReplyDelete