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Fraternal Potter Wasp

Fraternal Potter Wasp

Eumenes fraternus

Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Animalia
Abundance: Common
Habitat: Forest, Grassland, Urban
Activity: Diurnal (Active during day)

This important wasp can be recognized by the fact that the first abdominal segment is long and slender, very thin at the front and widening towards the back. Its coloring is black with a scattering of ivory-colored markings. It is distinguishable from other potter wasps by its dark, evenly-pigmented wings.

Diet

Larvae feed on insects like caterpillars hunted by the females. Adults feed on nectar and pollen from flowers.

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)
Kingdom: Animalia
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Phylum: Arthropoda
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Class: Insecta
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Order: Hymenoptera
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Family: Vespidae
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Genus: Eumenes
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Species: Eumenes fraternus

Scientific Name

Eumenes fraternus

Behavior

The female builds a miniature pot out of mud in which it lays an egg and places a live caterpillar for the larvae to feed on when they hatch. When she has placed enough provisions in the pot, the wasp seals the top with damp soil and goes off to build another nest.

Ecological Role

These wasps are important predators and pollinators

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)

Habitat Types

Forest
Grassland
Urban

Geographic Distribution

Found in the eastern United States and Canada. Its range extends west as far as Ontario, Minnesota, Kansas and Texas.

Local Abundance

Common

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife
No field notes or observations available for this species.

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