Knowledgebase
Insect Identification #752045
Asked May 25, 2021, 1:47 PM EDT
Good Morning,
I found this insect in my backyard last night. I have never seen anything like it before. It is mostly black with iridescent wings, orange tips on legs and antennae. Any idea what it is? Thank you!
Anchorage County Alaska
Expert Response
Hi Ryan,
This is an elm sawfly, Cimbex americanus. They are related to wasps but cannot sting and are completely harmless, just big. Based on coloration this one may be a male, though sometimes females have this coloration as well. Females also can be black and yellow striped, similar to a bee or yellowjacket. Here is some more information and photos for this species: https://bugguide.net/node/view/37878
Alex