Family: Chrysididae

General Notes

This is a relatively large family of wasps which are cleptoparasitic or predaceous in the nests of aculeate bees and wasps. They are often collected due to their ready visibility and their widespread distribution. Most species are strikingly metallic, however some are duller and resemble halictids. Generally, when disturbed, chrysidids curl up into balls, tucking their heads into the convex surface of their abdomen.