A Hive of Activity
For the past week or two i’ve been observing a quietly unfolding saga taking place center-stage on a swaying strelizia tree leaf. At times the leaf has been tossed like a ship in a force Ten, and on quiet days it’s all a-buzz. Taking the pictures has been fairly challenging, not only because of the erratic motion, but also the alert sentries. Ouch! They do have a sting! Here’s the scene – 
Tending the eggs, pupae growing.
Incubating crysallis.
Stocking up on nectar.
Taking a break.
The buzz of activity round this nest of brown paper wasps is clearly divided. The queen wasp, lays and tends the eggs, while three workers take up duty on the front face of the open comb, three act as an attack squadron as well as undertake repair and construction. For more information on paper wasps click here.
Interesting, and great photos!
March 16, 2013 at 9:30 pm
very surprising! Waou, very great photos
March 16, 2013 at 10:30 pm
As these considered good bugs or bad bugs? I’d be scared of those little critters.
March 17, 2013 at 1:23 am
Terrific photos. What a drama.
March 17, 2013 at 4:02 am
Wonderful macros! Watching the little creatures can be so interesting.
March 17, 2013 at 8:22 am
Amazing photos!
March 17, 2013 at 10:28 am
Fantastic photos.
March 17, 2013 at 6:40 pm
Great shots! I don’t envy you getting so close…
March 17, 2013 at 6:51 pm