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I only know this as a 'paper wasp' ... but actually i think this little guy is bigger than the usual ones. That's Mint flowers ... most insects love them. ~AB
Canberra, ACT, Australia.... garden.
I have no idea if these insects 'spit' formic acid in defense, but quite a few do.. I am one of the lucky ones because I do not swell up in reaction to their 'spit' ... although it still hurts a bit, some people have an allergic reaction which can cause big problems. I guess it's a real problem if the 'spit' goes in your eyes. But still.. that's no reason to reach for the killer sprays! Just being aware of them is usually enough. ~AB
Spotted on Feb 10, 2013
Submitted on Mar 7, 2013
2 Comments
Delta latreilli, a beautiful Australian endemic species.
This is most likely a mason wasp - I would guess in the genus Delta.
These don't spit formic acid - but will have a nasty sting if you disturb them.
They won't be quite as aggressive as the paper wasps that build colonial nests and then defend them.