Pollen Goblin
Mesostenus thoracicus
Quick ID
A slender ichneumon wasp with a shiny black body, orange legs, and a narrow waist.
Often seen dusted with pollen while moving slowly over flowers.
Long antennae and a graceful, wasp-like posture.
Ecological Role
Parasitoid wasp within a genus known to parasitize Lepidoptera larvae (moths and butterflies). Adults also visit flowers, contributing minor incidental pollination.
At-a-Glance
Slender black ichneumon wasp + orange legs + found on flowers + harmless parasitoid = Pollen Goblin.
Where to Find It
On flowers in gardens, fields, forest edges, and along trails. Most easily spotted when foraging on sunny days.
Look-Alikes
May be confused with other small ichneumon wasps or slim solitary wasps. Key difference: Mesostenus species have a distinctly elongated body, long antennae, and a smoother, glossier thorax compared to many similar genera.
Why It Matters
By parasitizing caterpillars, members of this genus help regulate moth and butterfly populations and support ecological balance. Their flower visits also make them part of the broader pollinator community.
Safety
Non-aggressive and unlikely to sting. Safe to observe up close as long as it isn’t handled roughly.
Fun Fact
The Pollen Goblin may look fierce, but it specializes in hunting soft-bodied larvae—never people.
Dig Deeper
Curious for more? Read the blog.
Recommended Book References
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