Mud Dauber

Actual Size: 1”

Characteristics: Yellow or black; very thin waist. Easily identified by their nest.

Legs: 6

Antennae: Yes

Habitat: Construct nests out of mud. Tubes are about 1” long and constructed side by side under eaves, porch ceilings, and more.

Habits:

  • Solitary wasps that do not live in colonies
  • Collect and store spiders to feed their young
  • Unlikely to sting, even when disturbed

Mud Daubers in Puerto Rico

Mud daubers are solitary wasps that construct nests or brood chambers from mud. There are many species of mud daubers and they are commonly found throughout the nation. 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. Mud daubers are not aggressive and usually leave people alone. They can sting, but will only do so when they feel their nest is threatened. Mud daubers eat spiders and build their nests near spider populations.

Mud Dauber Habitat

Mud daubers live in nests constructed by the female population of the colony. These cylindrical nests look much like an organ pipe. Nests consist of short mud tubes 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 provided, molting several times before pupating and transforming into an adult wasp. When nests appear to have round holes on the outside, this is an indication the wasps have emerged and the nest is inactive.

Mud Dauber Behaviors, Threats & Dangers

Mud daubers do not defend their nests and are rarely aggressive. These wasps are beneficial insects as they reduce spider populations. Although mud daubers aren’t dangerous, they can still be a nuisance when they are nesting in or near your home here in San Juan or Ponce. As with any stinging insect, it’s important to always be cautious around them. If you see them nesting or burrowing nearby, contact your local wasp control experts for help.