Mud Daubers in Salina
Mud daubers are solitary wasps that build their nests from mud. There are many species of mud daubers, and while they might look frightening, they are not aggressive and typically do not sting unless their nest is directly threatened. Besides its unique nest, one of the easiest ways to identify a mud dauber is by its thread-like waist separating its abdomen and thorax, which helps differentiate it from other types of wasps. They are common throughout Salina and the rest of the United States.
Mud Dauber Habitat
Mud daubers live in nests constructed by females. Their cylindrical nests look like organ pipes constructed side by side and are most often located in shaded areas like porch ceilings, under eaves, or in sheds and barns. The female mud dauber collects spiders, paralyzes them with her sting, and then places them inside mud chambers within the nest. She deposits an egg on top of one of the spiders in the chamber before sealing it off. The larval wasp hatches and feeds on the spiders, molting several times before pupating and transforming into an adult wasp. When nests appear with round holes on the outside, it means the wasps have emerged and the nest is inactive.
Mud Dauber Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Mud daubers do not defend their nests and are rarely aggressive. In fact, they can be beneficial as they reduce spider populations. Although mud daubers aren’t dangerous to humans, they can still be a nuisance when they are nesting in or near your home. If a nest is found on your property, make sure your nest removal is handled by a professional wasp control company, as any wasp handling can be dangerous.
