Stictia

Stictia is a genus of large, solitary wasps belonging to the family Bembicidae. These wasps are commonly known as "dragon wasps" or "tiger wasps" due to their size and striking coloration, which often includes yellow and black patterns. They are found in various regions, primarily in the Americas, with species distributed across North, Central, and South America.

These wasps are powerful predators, with females digging burrows in sandy or loamy soil for nesting. They are active hunters, preying on flies and other small insects which they paralyze with their venom and provision their nest cells with. The larvae develop within these cells, feeding on the stored prey. Stictia wasps are known for their aggressive defense of their nests, and while their sting can be painful, they are not typically considered dangerous to humans unless provoked or handled. Their presence is often an indicator of suitable sandy habitats.