DESCRIPTION: Up to 15mm. A large yellow and black Ichnuemon with an exact distinguishing yellow and black patternation on the abdomen and a spine on top of the thorax. Males have wide yellow abdominal stripes with a yellow tip on the abdomen too. The hind femur is primarily black. Females are also distinctive but the yellow bands on the abdomen are narrower and curved, rather ring shaped. BEHAVIOUR: Usually seen feeding on the pollen of various umbellifers such as Hogweed. Moths are used as hosts.  DISTRIBUTION: Widespread throughout lowland Britain but never seen in great numbers. HABITAT: Roadside verges, hedgerows, woodland rides and clearings and in areas of dense undergrowth. PERIOD: Best seen during May to July and again during October to November.