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small black flying insect in LA
Mon, Oct 20, 2008 at 1:16 PM
I have been unable to identify an insect I have been finding in my house in Louisiana. I have seen several others asking about it also and no one seems to have the answer. Its about 1/4 of an inch long, completely black, and has somewhat slender wings like a fly. It’s back legs are quite long and are positioned like a cricket’s. Its body resembles an ant or wasp. It does not seem agressive, but is attracted to light. It is fairly quick, about the speed of a house fly. They don’t tend to fly for long periods of time. Thanks for any info
Brandon
South Western Louisiana

Ensign Wasp

Hi Brandon,
Your insect is a beneficial Ensign Wasp.  They are beneficial because they parasitize the egg cases of Cockroaches, effectively reducing the population.

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