Image of Pepsis mildei Stål 1857

Description:

These wasps seemed to be attracted to the flowers of this Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Their antenna are yellow-orange and capable of curling. Observed about 3 of this species today, and they were present yesterday as well. They appear to be loosely social, sometimes feeding in pairs. Also, they are not overly skittish of humans, as I was able to bring one into photographing distance by slowly tugging its branch down.