POLISTES SP .Paper wasps.
By Pitta
20 Nov, 2009
3 likes
In Australia we have 35 species of wasps . The paper wasp build on trees and buildings making hexagonal cells to hold the larvae .The nests are made from saliva and wood fragments ,when dry are quite papery. They place a stung caterpillar in the cells to feed the developing maggot like larvae.Adults live on nectar.They have a painful sting and will attack enmasse if they feel under threat.
Comments on this photo
And the moral of the story is .... don't threaten wasps !! They must have to collect a hell of a lot of caterpillars to feed their young Pitta ? Fantastic picture ! :~)
20 Nov, 2009
Yes Sue . Wen you are in a rainforest I suppose there would be thousands of caterpillars around, The wasps are welcome to the caterpillars that stip leaves from my plants.We have lots of nests high up and we ignore them but if they are from ground level to 8 ft they have to go , we get a long bamboo pole wrapped with cloth , light it and burn the whole nest after dark when all the wasps are enjoying their after dinner mints.
21 Nov, 2009
Lol ! :~))
21 Nov, 2009
Just imagining the wasps tucking into their "aftr 8's" did they pass round the port too.....lol
Lovely pic....thanks Pitta:)
23 Nov, 2009
Of Course PORT.
23 Nov, 2009
Wow there's a few there is'nt there.
20 Nov, 2009