Fraternal Potter Wasp
Eumenes fraternus
The architectural precision of their clay nests is so distinct that it resembles miniature, hand-thrown pottery, complete with a flared lip.
- Scientific name
- Eumenes fraternus
- Taxonomy
- Animalia › Arthropoda › Insecta › Hymenoptera › Vespidae › Eumenes
- IUCN Red List status
- Least Concern
- Population trend
- stable
- Biome
- forest
- Habitat
- Deciduous woodlands, forest edges, shrublands, and suburban gardens.
- Diet
- Adults feed on flower nectar; larvae feed on paralyzed caterpillars provided by the mother.
- Range
- Eastern North America, United States, Southern Canada
- Size
- 15 - 20 mm
- Lifespan
- 1 year
- Active
- diurnal
- Threats
- Widespread pesticide application, habitat destruction, and loss of natural clay and water sources.
- Safe to approach?
- Harmless and non-aggressive. Females possess a mild sting but only use it if directly handled or stepped on. Maintain a respectful distance of 1-2 feet to observe their nest-building. If stung, wash the area with soap and water and apply ice; seek medical attention only if you experience an allergic reaction.
Eumenes fraternus is a species of potter wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae of the family Vespidae. It is native to the eastern United States and Canada. The female builds a miniature pot out of mud in which it lays an egg and places a live caterpillar. Its developing larva feeds on this whereas the adult wasp feeds primarily on nectar.
Photo: Zachary Dankowicz, CC-BY, via iNaturalist
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