This Potter Wasp Nest was on a pine sapling in my yard here in Arkansas. This is the second one of these I have found. The first one was on a rock I found while hiking the Ouachita National Forest.
I read that Native Americans based their pottery designs upon the form of local potter wasp nests.
Arkansas is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including a number of species of potter wasps. These fascinating insects are known for their distinctive nests, which are made from mud and are often shaped like pots or vases.
Potter wasps are a group of insects that belong to the family Vespidae. There are over 200 species of potter wasps found throughout the world, and they are known for their ability to construct intricate nests out of mud. These nests are used to protect their eggs and young.
Potter wasps are solitary insects, meaning that they do not form colonies like some other species of wasps. Instead, each female builds her own nest, often on the side of a building or in a tree. The nests are constructed by the female wasp, who gathers mud from nearby sources and uses it to shape the nest into its characteristic pot-like shape. Once the nest is complete, the female lays her eggs inside and seals the entrance with more mud.
Where to Find Potter Wasp Nests in Arkansas
Potter wasp nests can be found throughout Arkansas, although they are most common in the southern and central parts of the state. If you’re interested in finding potter wasp nests in Arkansas, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success.
First, keep an eye out for nests on the sides of buildings or in trees. Potter wasps typically build their nests in protected, shaded areas, so look for nests in places that are protected from the sun and wind.
Second, look for nests in areas with a good source of mud. Potter wasps gather mud from nearby sources to construct their nests, so look for nests in areas with a nearby pond, stream, or other source of mud.
Finally, be sure to approach any nests you find with caution. Potter wasps can be aggressive if they feel threatened, so it’s important to give them plenty of space and respect their territory.