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Jeff Rees | all galleries >> Insects >> Other Insects > Wasp Battle
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Wasp Battle

Worcester, MA, USA

The wasp on the left was feeding on these flowers when the wasp at tne bottom flew in and knocked the original wasp off. The first time I saw it occur, I thought it was an accident. But, I saw this happen a few times with different wasps and it always seemed to be the same two species. I don't know enough about wasps to identify the species. Does anyone know why they do this?


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Guest 18-May-2008 20:26
In answer to the question, probably territorial. Not sure of the species either, but the bottom one is some type of "thread waisted wasp" and the top one isn't. Obviously they're not from the same colony. Wasps are best avoided in Fall, they'll attack in droves if you get close to their nests.
Bumble Bees show this type of behavior quiet often, and will buzz you if you linger. They usually won't sting, but can be pesky when trying to get a shot. It's best to move slow, since sudden movement always attracts them more... especially wasps! :-)
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