How Do Spider Wasps Kill Spiders?
WouterUnlike many insect species, spider wasps do not live in colonies. Instead, they nest as burrows beneath the ground. They use dried wood and twigs to make their nests. They are not aggressive and do not attack people out of self-defense. However, their sting can be quite painful and allergic reactions to their stings may occur.
In order to paralyze a spider, a wasp must sting it multiple times. The wasp then places the prey near the entrance to its burrow. The spider then becomes paralyzed and is unable to move, which makes it an easy target for the wasp.
In order to grow, young wasps need protein. This is why they hunt spiders. They then drag the paralyzed spider back to the nest and lay an egg on its abdomen.
After the egg hatches, the larva grows by consuming blood from the spider. The larva then injects or glues the egg onto the spider’s abdomen. Once the larvae grow to full size, they build a cocoon around the spider’s body.
Unlike many insect species, spider wasps are not aggressive. Instead, they hunt and feed on spiders. They do not live in colonies, so they are unlikely to invade your home. They are rarely more than an annoyance.
Spider wasps usually live in burrows underground, and are rarely found in houses. If you notice a spider wasp, you can use a fly swatter or spray to drive it away. You can also place rolled up newspaper on the ground to discourage it.
