Figs 31, 32

This species was described by Mason 1981 and considered to be widely distributed in the Nearctic. However, a recent revision of the species combining molecular, biological and geographical data (Fernandez-Triana 2010) found that the species is restricted to western North America. The specimens from eastern Canada mentioned in Yu et al. 2012 actually represent Venanus heberti (see above for details on that species). Here complete details on the localities where Canadian specimens of Venanus pinicola were collected are reported for the first time (Alberta, Banff National Park, Mount Eisenhower, Johnston Canyon; British Columbia, Langford, Robson, Hixon, Victoria; Yukon Territory, Pelly Crossing; all specimens deposited in the CNC). Venanus pinicola has been reported by Fernandez-Triana 2010 as a parasitoid of Coleotechnites milleri and Coleotechnites starki (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae).

Assessment using the prioritization criteria developed by COSEWIC. Existing global conservation status: None (species is not listed on Natureserve nor has it been assigned a Canadian national conservation status rank). Canadian population size and trends: No information on population size is available, although the species has been repeatedly collected over a span of 50 years, between July and August. Threats: Residential and commercial development – medium to high (some of the areas where the species occur in Canada are already heavily populated); Agriculture and aquaculture – unknown; Human intrusions and disturbance – medium; Natural system modifications – high (alteration of the natural areas currently protected would likely extirpate the species from Canada); Invasive and other problematic species and genes – unknown but likely low, unless another wasp species parasitizing the same host would be introduced (and then competing for the same host, an scenario not likely to occur); Climate change and severe weather – unknown but likely low (climate change increasing the temperatures would not affect much the presence of this species in Canada, because it is already distributed in warmer areas). Small extent of occurrence or area of occupancy: Recorded from a few localities in western Canada. Limiting biological factors: Unknown.