Lion Beetle mistaken for wasp

Subject: Large Bee wasp bug
Location: Pacific northwest southern region
August 3, 2014 1:06 pm
This is 1 and 1/4 inch long bug. Makes chirping noise when threatened with like scorpion rear extension. Thanks for your help.
Signature: Jo

Lion Beetle

Dear Jo,
Though it is easily mistaken for a wasp or bee, this Lion Beetle, Ulochaetes leoninus, is a Longhorned Borer Beetle in the family Cerambycidae.  According to the Introduction to California Beetles by Arthur V. Evans & James N. Hogue:  “The Lion Beetle … looks and behaves just like a bumblebee, even attempting to sting with its ovipositor.  When disturbed, the Lion Beetle raises its abdomen forward over its back while flapping its wings, reinforcing its bee-like appearance.”  Your individual is a female.  Male Lion Beetles have much longer antennae.

Thank you, it does want to do that stinging thing.  Jo

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Location: Pacific Northwest