This looks like a wasp to me even though it seems a bit early but the heatwave may be bringing them out earlier this year. I was taking shots of ants and flies etc on my hydrangeas when I noticed this one drinking from the bird bath. You can see his proboscis sticking out drinking.
Best on black
Many thanks for your lovely comments on my uploads - always very much appreciated!!
Lovely capture Pam, it is a Wasp and there are plenty around. The reason you don't see them early on is that at the moment they are hunting live prey. Aphids, caterpillars, and other bugs. They only become a problem and more noticeable, later in the year when the nests break down and they switch to sweet sugary foods and come into contact with us more often.
I've got a nest up in the roof and its not causing a problem.
I agree with Mark about them being a problem. Once had a nest inside the shed door. We had an "agreement" which allowed me access to the shed and a chance to photograph the growing nest and the busy workers from about inches. Eventually they all died leaving the wonderful papery nest behind, I hadn't bothered them, they didn't bother me.
Nice image
j
Yes early for wasps but the weather is rather unusual so they must have come out early, pesky things! You forget what they look like until they come out again.
I've got a nest up in the roof and its not causing a problem.
Nice image
j