Ophion variegatus

Description

Length 15-22 mm. Identified the pale stripes on the thorax and by pale corners of the 'stigma' (the dark mark on the leading edge of the forewing). Many species of Ophion look similar therefore field identification is difficult. When viewed dorsally they have a long narrow reddish brown body but from a side view, the thin curved waist broadens out to a deep abdominal region. Late winter and spring-flying (before June) specimens in this complex all seems to be Ophion variegatus. 

Similar Species

Ophion obscuratus agg.

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Detailed photos required. 

When to see it

Later winter and spring. 

UK Status

Unclear. 

VC55 Status

Unknown. 

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Species profile

Species group:
insect - hymenopteran
Kingdom:
Animalia
Order:
Hymenoptera
Family:
Ichneumonidae
Records on NatureSpot:
30
First record:
16/02/2023 (Leonard, Pete)
Last record:
02/03/2026 (Gaten, Ted)

Total records by month

% of records within its species group

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