Cryptocheilus notatus

Cryptocheilus notatus is the largest species of spider wasps to be found in Great Britain reaching up to 18 mm in length.

Biology

Cryptocheilus notatus constructs multi-celled nests and they require quite substantial pre-existing cavities, the wasp does very little digging herself. Nesting sites have included mammal burrows, notably those of the European Mole, but it will utilise disused invertebrate nest sites, which it will expand.
Prey recorded in Britain includes Drassodes cupreus, a large nocturnal ground spider from the Gnaphosidae.

Habitat

Associated with woodland edges. In Britain, it is associated with warm lowland heaths.

Distribution

Europe and the Middle East. In Britain, it is only found in the southern heathlands from Kent west to Cornwall, with concentrations in Surrey and Hampshire. In Europe has been recorded in Spain, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and Poland. It has also been found in Turkey, east to Iran and Central Asia.