Scouting Alert: Intriguing Insect
During one of our recent scouting excursions, we found these clay-like nests attached to a corn leaf. After further questioning and research, we discovered that these nests belong to a family of potter wasps. Adult potter wasps can be found near wooded areas and fields but can be easy to miss; they only measure about a 1/2 inch! To no surprise they are known for their clay-like nests that resemble tiny pottery, hence the name potter wasp. After making their nests out of a dry clay/soil and water mixture, the females lay their eggs inside. Potter wasps provide nutrition to their larvae by bringing beetle and caterpillar larvae back to the nests.
Good news is, there is no harm to the plants and/or fields the potter wasps decide to build their nests on. It’s always exciting to find new things like this, especially when they are not threatening the crops!
Don’t miss out on future scouting finds, subscribe to our blog via e-mail on the right-hand side of this page!