Biology & Reproduction

Mud Daubers, also known as Mud Wasps, get their name because they construct their nests from mud. They’re a long and slender wasp with yellow and black markings. They are not a social insect and the female will only construct a nest to lay eggs in. The nest is layered in mud and constructed side by side. These nests are provisioned with several paralyzed spiders, which are used for the eggs to feed off of once they hatch. Once the female lays her eggs she’ll leave the nest. Most full grown mud daubers don’t emerge until late spring to early summer.

Habits

Nests are typically built in a sheltered site. This can be places like porch ceilings, under eaves, barns, attics, under eaves, ect. If the nest has round holes in them, the wasps that were in them have already left. Usually a nest with holes will mean that it has already been used and is inactive. Mud daubers don’t defend their nests, so they’ll rarely sting unless they are feeling threatened.

Control

Mud Daubers are beneficial insects because they help control spider populations. Since they’re typically nonaggressive control is not always necessary unless the nest is in a high traffic area. Always call a professional if a nest needs to be removed, as any bee handling can be dangerous.