On Biolab Rd at Merritt Island yesterday, I saw a wasp carrying a large insect.It landed on a branch, I guess to rest for a little bit, and this allowed me to take a few photos.
I’m no expert on insects, but I’m pretty sure this is a Digger Wasp, perhaps a Great Golden Digger Wasp.
Female Digger Wasps look for Katydids and Grasshoppers, sting them to paralyze them, and then bring them back to one of their tunnels.
Once bringing them one into her tunnel, she will lay her eggs there and then close up the tunnel. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae will eat the Katydid. Sorry if that’s gross, but I find it quite fascinating.
By the way, digger wasps are not aggressive. They don’t defend their nests, and they are not likely to sting. They’re pretty awesome creatures.
Scott Simmons
Scott Simmons, based in Florida, is a lover of nature, landscape, and wildlife photography. Scott became interested in photography in 2001 when he was given his first SLR camera. When he acquired a telephoto lens, he became progressively more interested in birds and other wildlife. Scott enjoys learning about bird habitats and behavior, striving always to take images that are both beautiful and interpretive. Scott believes photography is a great vehicle to help others to appreciate the wonder for the stuff of earth.
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