Did You Know That Wasps Have Natural Predators?
WouterBesides consuming insect prey, wasps also provide food for a variety of animals. Birds, beetles, spiders, insects, ants and centipedes are among the species that feed on wasps. Some mammals, reptiles, amphibians and even humans eat wasps.
In some areas, wasps are intentionally introduced to farms to protect crops. Wasps are also known to be attracted to floral perfumes. This can lead to the development of aggressive behaviour among workers.
Wasps are also able to attract predators because of their venomous sting. However, all animals use different tactics to protect themselves from predators. If you are stung by a wasp, brush off the sting before you attempt to flee. Predators, such as raccoons, mice and rats, will eat the larvae and larval pupa of wasps. If you are caught by a wasp, keep your composure and avoid open garbage cans and other open areas where you can easily escape the stinging wasps.
Among the birds that feed on wasps are wrens, chipping sparrows, bluebirds and blackbirds. The European honey buzzard also eats the larvae of wasps and other wasps.
In the UK, badgers are the primary wasp predators. Badgers have long claws and strong arms. These predators will dig up underground wasp nests and destroy them. They will also attack and destroy whole colonies of wasps.
In the United States, there are several species of wasps that are considered predators. Some species are solitary, while others are more social. Solitary wasps are more docile and do not attack their prey.
