Sphecoid wasps are insects that belong to the family Sphecidae, which includes more than 9000 species of wasps. They are known for their hunting behavior, as they hunt and paralyze other insects to serve as food for their offspring. Some synonyms for sphecoid wasp include digger wasps, sand wasps, and mud daubers. Digger wasps are named because they create nests in soil by digging holes. Sand wasps build nests on sandy surfaces while mud daubers create nests with mud. Sphecoid wasps play an important role in insect control and pollination, making them an essential part of the ecosystem.