Other Common Names
Sand Wasps (also applies to the closely related Bicyrtes).
Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
"Bembex" is a misspelling.
Abdomen black with broad white, yellowish, or light bluish curving bands that often meet at the dorsal midline.
Usually sandy areas; nest holes are dug in the sand; best opportunity to observe individuals is on dunes or where vegetation is sparse
Females provision their nest with flies which the larvae feed on (a single developing larva may eat more than twenty flies)
Provisioning is progressive. The females provide a greater number of prey over subsequent days during larval growth. Adults are excellent diggers and can disappear below the surface of loose sand within seconds.
generally have abdominal bands that are straighter and don't quite meet at the dorsal midline