Entomognathus brevis

A small, black wasp superficially resembling Lindenius species, but with pronounced hairy eyes.

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’.

Mainly found in sandy areas, often where the soil has a gravel content.  It may also be seen visiting umbellifers.

Univoltine; late May to early September, most frequent in July.

Prey consists of small, adult beetles. Nesting takes place in sandy slopes, often gregariously. The nest usually branches into cells, the maximum being about ten. 16 to 26 prey items are used per cell and the larva consumes these before spinning a cocoon covered on the outer surface with sand grains.

Found from Cornwall to Kent and north to Glamorgan, Warwickshire and South-east Yorkshire.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.