Weekly Photo Challenge #42

Theme: Nature

For those of you who don’t know what they are looking at; it’s a mud wasps cell. I baked it in my ceramic kiln, otherwise it wouldn’t last very long. The cells are made out of clay that the wasps collect in nature. All cells were empty, so don’t worry, I didn’t kill any.

Have you ever examined a wasp collect their building materials. They fly to a nearby puddle and collect mud in their mouth. It’s amazing! Then they build the walls as would a ceramist. They then lay their eggs and add a tasty, live caterpillar or other insects that the larvae can feed on. I know, it sounds cruel but they also have the right to thrive in nature.

Questo è un nido della vespa vasaia o muratrice. E’ un abile costruttore. Raccoglie in bocca l’argilla nelle pozzanghere e costruisce i suoi vasi che ospiteranno le larve. Prima di sigillare l’apertura, deposita un uovo e aggiunge una leccornia — brucco, ragno e altri piccoli insetti che nutriranno la larva.

Author: eleanorannpeterson

I’m a nature-loving adventurer and children’s book author whose life has been an exhilarating journey. Originally hailing from Ottawa, Canada, I developed a deep fascination for wildlife while chasing after wild animals in the swamps. Although I initially aspired to become a veterinarian, my path took an unexpected turn when I relocated to Italy. In Italy, I pursued my passion for nature by earning a BS in Environmental Sciences and Territorial Management. This educational experience further ignited my love for writing about the natural world and its diverse wildlife. I’m an active member of several professional organizations, including SCBWI, 12x12PB Challenge, and the Children’s Book Academy. Constantly seeking growth and connection within the industry, I engage with fellow writers and storytellers. Despite my affinity for all creatures, I humorously admit that my nine cats can be the most challenging animals to handle. When I’m not wrangling my feline friends, I spend my time writing, doodling, playing with clay, gardening, and exploring the enchanting Italian countryside with my husband. I also love preparing homemade pasta, showcasing my culinary skills.

6 thoughts

    1. I’m very lucky Angie. I only wish I had more time to use the kiln. Hope you’re staying safe.

      Reply

  2. This sounds amazing! (Except, I can’t see the photo that accompanies it.) Thanks for sharing about mud wasps. I’m not a fan of wasps in general, but I can appreciate the amazing-ness of what they can do!

    Reply

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