I live near Seattle WA.

I collected what appeared to be a moth pupa a couple months back to see if it would develop at home where I'd then take pictures to identify and immediately release (as long as not an invasive dangerous pest!).

The original pupa was purple/burgundy, and surrounded by light brown hairs I presume came from a caterpillar.

The Ichneumon Wasp is predominately black, an inch long without it's waist/abdomen fully extended, with antennae about 3/4" in length. It has a greenish-gold face plate, yellow/orange antennae, black and yellow/orange segmented legs.

I have quality pictures, but see no way to upload one. Could not locate an Icnheumonologist online. Hoping an entomologist here can help?

I added some pics (manage attachments) but don't see them!

We have several members who might be able to help. They come online as their real-life schedules allow. Stay tuned and check back now and then.

To post photos --

1. At the bottom of the box that you type in there's a link that says "go advanced". Click it.

2. A paperclip symbol will show up on the top option on the box that you type in. Click the paperclip.

3. A new box will pop up called "manage your attachments".

4. Hit the "browse" button.

5. Find the picture you want to post and double click on it.

6. Hit the "upload" button beside the browse button.

7. Under the section "Upload file from a URL", a link will appear. That's your picture.

8. Close the manage attachments window.

9. Click on the paperclip again. Your link for your picture will be there. Click on it.

10. Post.

You can post up to 5 pictures per post.

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Now, what is your question?

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Originally Posted by Wondergirl

Now, what is your question?

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Looking to identify the specific species of wasp and the likely species of caterpillar/moth serving as host.

Thanks. I'll watch this thread for responses and alert our entomology members, if needed.

The wasp looks to be a blue mud dauber, or possibly a cricket hunter.

Species Chalybion californicum - Blue Mud Wasp - BugGuide.Net

The chrysalis may be that of an Olive cutworm moth.

Moth on Joe Pye Eupatorium - BugGuide.Net