scoliid wasps on a flower

Scoliid wasp (Scolia dubia). Photo: Ansel Oommen, Bugwood.org

Updated: March 23, 2026

About Scoliid wasps

  • Scoliid wasps, also called digger wasps, are a type of ground-nesting wasp.
  • Scoliid wasps are about 5/8 inch long, blue-black, with blackish-purple wings. There are two yellow spots, one on each side of the abdomen.
  • Their bodies are fairly hairy and the back part of the abdomen is covered with reddish hairs.
  • They are generally seen flying in large numbers over lawns during the day, leaving in early evening.
  • Scoliids are beneficial wasps parasitic on grubs. They are not aggressive and generally do not attack people. They disappear at the end of the season. 
  • Adults are often seen visiting goldenrod flowers in late summer.
  • Control is not necessary or recommended