Spider-Hunting Wasps

‘Under the Microscope’: This week's news begins with an update from the Entomology Team which compiled this snippet called “Under the Microscope” on spider-hunting wasps. These formidably feisty females play a key role as pollinators in fynbos.

Spider-hunting wasps are often seen dragging large rain spiders on the ground. Females will paralyze a spider and provide their nests with it for their offspring to feed on. These wasps are not aggressive but will defend their prey with a painful sting. Adult spider-hunting wasps are frequently found on flowers collecting nectar and are important pollinators.

Entomology Team, Grootbos