Potter Wasp
Abispa ephippium
Identification: Length to 30 mm. Robust body; mostly orange; large central black patch between forewings; wide black band on abdomen; wings orange with black tips.
Habitat and Range: Open habitats and gardens. Widespread across mainland Australia.
Notes: Builds a large mud nest with many cells, in sheltered positions. The cells are filled with caterpillars as food for the larvae. One larva develops in each cell. Builds a temporary entrance funnel while the cells are being filled. The females search for prey around trees and shrubs and use their jaws to cut into the shelters of leaf-tying and leaf-rolling caterpillars.
