Mexican Grass Carrying Wasp – 7/5/21

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 7/5/21

Observation Time: 2:15 p.m.

Observation Location: Maskwonicut St. (on the bridge over Beaver Brook)

Common Name: Mexican Grass-carrying Wasp

Scientific Name: Isodontia mexicana

Comments: Isodontia mexicana is mainly found throughout North America, but has become established in Europe, primarily France, Switzerland, Hungary, Italy, Serbia, and Spain.

These wasps build their nests in hollowed branches or in other natural cavities, often reusing the nests of other species. Then they line the inside with grass fragments or other plant fibers (hence the name ‘Grass-carrying wasp’).

I. mexicana mainly preys on grasshoppers (usually katydids or tree crickets, choosing the small ones and carrying them to its nest to feed the emerging larvae with the living, but paralyzed prey.

More Information: Wikipedia