Europe's largest insect was spotted in southern Ukraine
A rare insect—the giant scolia—has been spotted in southern Ukraine; due to its large size and appearance, it is often mistaken for a hornet. It poses no threat to humans and uses its stinger primarily during mating.
Researchers noted that the giant scolius (Megascolia maculata) is the largest hymenopteran in Europe and is listed in Ukraine’s Red Book. Female scolius can reach 4–4.5 centimeters in length. Its large wings with a purple sheen, black body with yellow spots, and dense hairs make it truly striking. It is precisely because of this appearance that the insect is often mistaken for a hornet and considered dangerous.
“In reality, the scolia is not aggressive at all. It does not attack people and uses its stinger not for defense, but only during reproduction. Its venom is significantly weaker than that of most common wasps. Adult scoliids feed on flower nectar and, at the same time, help pollinate them. They are most often seen on thistles and other flowering plants,” ecologists write.
It is noted that the scolius’s role in nature is even more interesting. The female finds the larvae of large beetles, such as the rhinoceros beetle, in the soil or compost piles, paralyzes them, and lays an egg. In this way, scoliids naturally regulate the population of soil insects, maintaining the natural balance of ecosystems.
“Seeing a giant scolius is a great rarity. The species is listed in Ukraine’s Red Book as vulnerable. In southern Ukraine, the giant scolius can still be found. If you’re lucky enough to encounter one, it’s best to simply observe it, take a photo, and leave the insect alone,” the State Inspection emphasizes.
Members of the Dnipro City Council voted to recognize stray cats as part of the city’s ecosystem. Along with this status, the animals gained new rights and responsibilities.
At its meeting on July 7, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine amended the rules for transporting pets by road.
