Paper Wasp

Paper nest approx 4-5 inches across 1-1 1/2 inches thick attached to seam in eaves by petiole, thus appearing as if an umbrella hanging from its tip

by Twincol Aug 9, 2009 3:15 AM

Another view; note the wasps on the upper side between the white wood and the nest, the shape of the body illustrated by the sideview of the insect at the lower edge of the photo

by Twincol Aug 9, 2009 3:26 AM

A nice image of a smaller nest than previously posted. Notice the shape, with the center higher than the outer edges. It had fallen from its substrate. Note the little pedicel against my finger.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:17 AM

Underside of the smaller nest.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:19 AM

Side view of the larva tucked inside a cell. The larva is fed by it's mum at this stage, then covered to await hatching.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:26 AM

Top side of nest with both covered and uncovered cells visible. Note the little shiny brown head of the larva.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:29 AM

Another of the top of nest. Larva lying aside the nest.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:32 AM

Closer look at the larva. Note the dark head with the definition around the jaw. Note also the nearly translucent rear tip.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:34 AM

Here is a little pupated larva, which will mature within the capped cell.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:49 AM

And finally, an escaped "fledgling" wasp. I'd trapped it in the house and it was just plain tuckered out, hanging from the branch and on its back.

by Twincol Aug 19, 2009 6:55 AM