Pots of a potter wasp, perhaps in the genus Eumenes
6.12.2009
Throwing Pots
Wasps are fascinating. I love to watch them at work building their nests, whether they be paper or mud or a hole in the ground. Unfortunately, I don't always get to see the building part. Case in point, the mud pots below. I found them as they are, fastened to a small tree in the parking lot at work. The top pot is complete and sealed up, probably with a few small, smooth-skinned caterpillars inside - along with an egg. The lower pot will probably be full soon and capped. If the female is successful, then her offspring will emerge in the course of time. But, there is always the chance that another species will emerge instead -- the world is full of parasites and squatters ;)
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6 comments:
I've never seen such a thing!
Another of nature's artisans.
Lynne,
The little pots are about the size of the end of my thumb and very cute.
I found these last year for the first time, and marveled at such a small and wonderful creation.
I would love to come across a Potter wasp in the middle of her work--can you imagine...her little wheel and all?!
:-)
nina,
I'd love to see the little backpack she carries her wheel in. Plus, with all those legs I bet she can make that wheel really spin! ;)
Such elegant structures!
Bird,
I agree. The little pots are so very pleasing to the eye.
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