Chrysura radians (Harris,1776)
Description and notes
In older literature this species is referred to as Chrysis pustulosa Abeille de Perrin. Identification keys and general biology are given in Morgan (1984), Falk (1991) and Kunz (1994).
Distribution
Cornwall to Kent, and north to South Yorkshire. The species is widespread but rarely found (M Edwards, pers. comm.).
Overseas: Europe, Turkey, Syria, Arabia, Caucasus, Siberia, north Africa.
Status (in Britain only)
Listed in Falk (1991) as Notable A.
Habitat
This species occurs in a variety of open, sunny habitats. It is usually seen around old wooden posts, stumps and dead trees where its host nests.
Flight period
Probably univoltine. Adults mainly fly from May until July, rarely in August and September.
Parasites
No information available.
Parasitic biology
A parasitoid on wood-nesting species of Osmia, possibly O. leaiana. See Chrysura hirsuta for further details.
Year profile last updated
2002