My reaction on seeing this insect in the garden was the same as Eric Eaton’s on correctly guessing the family: “Way cool!”
I’d never before seen a living stephanid wasp, but the elongate form and crown of spines on the head are distinctive enough to render these insects instantly recognizable. I don’t think I have ever run so quickly to fetch my camera.
Eight points to Eric for the correct ID, two points to Josh King for picking the sex, and 2 bonus points to Chris Grinter for the species, even though that level of specificity wasn’t required.
That is a truly amazing bug. It looks like a cartoon creation and seems like it might have a sense of humor itself. Thanks for the picture. I would love to see one of these guys in person.