What a mud dauber looks like in Portland OR and Vancouver WA - Interstate Pest Management

Mud Dauber

As their name implies, mud daubers are known for constructing nests and brood chambers from mud. These solitary wasps are common in the United States, and they are most active during the summer months. Mud daubers can easily be identified by their unique mud nest, or by the needle-thin waist separating their abdomen and thorax. These wasps are not usually aggressive and typically only sting if they sense danger.

 

Category:

Description

 

 Size 1”
Characteristics Yellow or black; very thin waist. Easily identified by their nest.
Legs 6
Antennae Yes
Habitat Builds a series of 1″ tubes out of mud, usually under eaves, porch ceilings, attics, or other protected spaces. 
 Habits
  • Prefers to live alone rather than in colonies.
  • Paralyzes and collects spiders as food for their young.
  • Not aggressive and rarely stings, even if disturbed.
Mud Daubers in the Pacific North West Mud daubers are solitary wasps that are most known for their distinctive nests made from mud. The nests look like a series of 1″ tubes placed next to each other, and mud daubers use these spaces to house their young. With a unique thread-like waist, these wasps have a sharp and frightening appearance. However, mud daubers are not aggressive and rarely sting unless they are threatened.
Mud Dauber Habitat Female mud daubers build cylindrical nests, which resemble an organ pipe when completed. These nests are made using mud and are often located in protected areas such as sheds, barns, or porch ceilings. Once fully constructed, the female mud dauber will deposit an egg into each chamber. She will then paralyze a spider with her sting and place it in the chamber with her egg before sealing the chamber, so her larval wasp can feed on the spider after hatching. The larval wasp will remain in this chamber until transforming into an adult wasp, where it will then dig through and exit the nest.
Mud Dauber Behavior, Threats, and Dangers Mud daubers are not aggressive wasps and they rarely defend their nests, which means they also rarely sting humans. Additionally, mud daubers can have a positive impact on the environment by limiting spider populations. Though these wasps are not dangerous, they can still be a bother if they nest in or near your home. If you find mud daubers on your property, it is best to contact a professional wasp control company to ensure they are removed properly and safely.

Related Pests