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Paper wasp (Ropalidia sp.) Busy building her nest. As I am unable to identify the exact species, some info on Paper Wasps:<br />
Narrow waisted brown wasps with black, yellow, grey or white markings on the body. All species build papery multi-celled nests of wood pulp and saliva, attached by a stalk to plants, rocks or buildings. All are social and defend their nests aggressively. The young are fed with chewed caterpillars. Nests are abandoned at the end of the season after males and reproductive females are produced. Fertilized females overwinter in sheltered places, founding new colonies in spring, their female offspring becoming workers. Geotagged,Ropalidia,South Africa,Spring,insects,paper wasps,wasps Click/tap to enlarge Promoted

Paper wasp (Ropalidia sp.)

Busy building her nest. As I am unable to identify the exact species, some info on Paper Wasps:
Narrow waisted brown wasps with black, yellow, grey or white markings on the body. All species build papery multi-celled nests of wood pulp and saliva, attached by a stalk to plants, rocks or buildings. All are social and defend their nests aggressively. The young are fed with chewed caterpillars. Nests are abandoned at the end of the season after males and reproductive females are produced. Fertilized females overwinter in sheltered places, founding new colonies in spring, their female offspring becoming workers.

    comments (7)

  1. Over 200 species of this wasp, but trying to identify the species!! Posted 10 years ago
  2. Wow Claire, this really is a world class macro shot. Awesome timing in getting it caught in the act, and overall its just so sharp and well composed. Love it! Posted 10 years ago
    1. Thanks Ferdy, I have to admit to being rather pleased with this one. For once, something amazing occurred right in front of my nose, at eye level and easily accessible. Bad light spot but hey, I am not complaining! I am just hoping that nothing disturbs her or the nest so that I can keep a record of its progress. Posted 10 years ago
      1. You really did capture something special here, I bet few people captured such a pose, so be proud! Posted 10 years ago
  3. Amazing capture. I shared it on my FB page and also on Hymenopterists Forum - I hope they will help to ID it.
    https://www.facebook.com/groups/HymenopteristsForum88/555587134575151/?notif_t=like&diams;
    Posted 10 years ago
    1. Thanks Jivko, amazing and interesting group, I have put in a request to join. Posted 10 years ago
  4. Great shot! Posted 10 years ago

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By Claire Hamilton

All rights reserved
Uploaded Oct 17, 2014. Captured Oct 17, 2014 15:53 in Unnamed Road, South Africa.
  • Canon EOS 70D
  • f/8.0
  • 1/250s
  • ISO1600
  • 100mm