Argogorytes mystaceus

Argogorytes mystaceus is a sand wasp, the male has unusually long antennae for this genus; the female has a short comb. The 1st abdominal segment is almost semi-circular.

Most solitary bees and wasps are difficult to identify, and can rarely be identified from photos taken in the field.  All red-rated records should include a photo or set of photos of the specimen, illustrating the key characters taken from a standard key, which should also be referenced (e.g. ‘Falk, 2015’).  The full set of key characters are generally not visible in field photos and photos are rarely sharp enough. To aid in the verification of your records, please include face shot, side, top and wings.  The notes should state whether male or female, and explain how the specimen met the key characters.  Although NS may not be able to identify the species even if these reference photos are provided, the photos will be stored with the record and may allow it be identified in future.   Alternatively, NS will accept records identified by a recognised local or national expert, or that have been identified via BWARS’ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100065021433202 .  If you have obtained this advice, please note the name of the person/organisation identifying the record in the ‘determiner’ field (e.g. ‘Stuart Roberts, BWARS Facebook’) rather than just a comment of ‘BWARS Facebook’.

Hedgerows and woodland edge.

Adult from May to September.

The nest is made in soil, and the female stocks this with Froghopper nymphs as food for the larvae, whilst the adults feed on Hogweed flowers.

Fairly common in suitable habitats although most British records come from England.

Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland.