FLY-CATCHING WASPS 101 



with which they cling to the fly. We have caught them in 

 a test-tube, and only with the hardest shaking could they 

 be induced to relinquish their hold. At the time when we 

 were afield we never thought of the probability of their 

 holding the fly by the aid of their sting. The figure (26), 

 drawn from a pinned specimen which was placed in the 

 cyanide jar with the prey and later shaken loose, shows 

 clearly the position of the abdomen and sting, and reveals 

 how it is possible for the fly to be carried on the under side 

 of the body, with the curved abdomen and sting holding 



FIG. 26. Paranothyreus cingulatis. ?. Twice natural size. 



the prey like a hook. This detail, however, needs further 

 clarification. Parker finds that a near relative, Oxybehts 

 quadrinotatiis, enters the nest with the fly firmly impaled 

 upon her sting. 



The only biological note on this species is recorded from 

 Washington State by Kincaid, 4 who saw it flying about 

 clumps of Lysichiton kamtschatinse. 



4 Ent. News n : 358. 



