What is this bug on my Morning Glory?

Question

I have a Morning Glory plant. Yesterday I noticed this bug on it. I tried to get a picture of it but this is the best I could get http://www.kodakgallery.com/Slideshow.jsp?Uc=10wdbx2e.9d3sriyy&Uy=-mrhzy6&Upost_signin=Slideshow.jsp%3Fmode%3Dfromshare&Ux=0&UV=454926113779_176115359306&mode=fromshare&conn_speed=1 . It also has a what looks like a stinger on the back and it's kind of has a tan color to it.

It's in the same spot that I first saw it yesterday. It has moved alittle but not from that spot. Even the wind and rain from last nights storms could make it move.

I'm going to try and get a better pic of it in a bit but first I have to get my son ready for school.

Missy

Oldest son Dylan (4), 23 weeks 4 days with Daniel

Answer 1

I would put my money on it being a (female) ichneumon wasp. The long "stinger" you see is realy its ovipositor...it lays its eggs deep within plant material...usually into the body of a grub. It's a beneficial insect.  

EDIT: If it is an ichneumon wasp, you needn't fear--they are non-stinging. But another thought: it's hard to tell from the photos, but your bug also resembles a common cranefly. Just google "cranefly" and a bunch of images should pop up. They are also harmless...I could see how one could confuse their long dangly legs with a stinger...especially if you were concerned about getting too close.