This paper wasp (Polistes spp) is enjoying the native Virginia bluebells as much as we do!
The wasp pictured is likely a “foundress”– a fertilized female who overwintered and has recently emerged to start a new colony.
While many people still fear the sight of Polistes’ beautifully crafted paper nests, social wasps such as these provide important ecosystem services–including pest control.
While adults consume nectar, they’re also on the hunt for insect protein to feed their developing larvae.And the benefits don’t stop in the pollinator garden: Paper wasps are effective controllers of pests on cabbage,broccoli and other cole crops. Give them their space, and they’ll reward you with the kind of nontoxic pest control that only Mother Nature can provide!
