Spider Wasp

Description:

This Spider Wasp can be seen in these photos killing (or more correctly, paralyzing) an Oxyopes javanus, commonly known as a Lynx Spider. I have witnessed Lynx Spiders killing insects many times, but this was the first time I have witnessed the tables being turned and the Lynx Spider becoming the victim. Wikipedia explains that adult wasps of the Family: Pompilidae feed on nectar. They capture spiders by stinging and paralyzing them for their larvae to feed on. It sounds gruesome to me.

Habitat:

I spotted this Spider Wasp with its prey on foliage at the edge of a rice field. It is a small patch of land with very little interference from humans. The undergrowth is dense and is shaded by the canopy of a row of mango trees between the edge of the road and the rice field. This is a place which I have noted down as a "hotspot" for insect life and other biodiversity. It is known locally for regular sightings of Reticulated Pythons and Tree Snakes. I know it best for a wealth of bugs and spiders. Obviously, the Pompilid Wasp also knew that it could find spiders there.