Ruby-tailed Wasp in her nest hole...

Paul Iddon

Six photo's from watching and trying to capture in focus photos of the ruby-tailed wasp (well, 5, cos one is the male that came to check on her). These ruby-tailed wasps are rarely still even for a half a second, but what amazed me watching and snapping away at this female, was that after checking loads of possible holes out (rawl plugs even!) in the brickwork, when she found the one she wanted, she actually reversed her body into the hole so that once inside, she would be facing the exit. The hole she is in must be considerably less thank an inch deep, but that means she is safe enough. The male in the fifth photo actually found her after about 30 seconds and did move into the same hole as she was in - I don't know if he was checking her out for safety or delivering food or just sounding out where he has to go to copulate when they are ready.















Paul.

Lord Vetinari

Good sequence Paul - not seen any ruby tailed wasps yet this year but as you say they normally only pay fleeting visits.
Pretty certain #5 is just a digger wasp probably also looking for a suitable nest hole.
Brian v.

Paul Iddon

Thanks for the update Brian - I just assumed they were "together"...

Paul.

DeeBug

A very colourful chappie Paul, well done!

Davy

Paul Iddon

DeeBug wrote: »

A very colourful chappie Paul, well done!

Davy

Cheers Davy

Paul.