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Jack spaniard wasp

Jack spaniard wasp

Polistes annularis

A species of Dominula-group paper wasps, Also known as Jack spaniard paper wasp

The jack spaniard wasp (Polistes annularis) is a wasp that is pretty easy to identify. This is because of their distinct, red bodies which cause them to stick out or their tendency to group together in large clusters. It is a survivalist wasp that hibernates over the winter, as it can be caught storing honey in excess.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Jack spaniard wasp sting humans?
Human Stinging
General Info About Jack spaniard wasp
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Attributes of Jack spaniard wasp
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
tree; shrub; building; cliff
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, tree sap, insects, honeydew, fruit juice
Larva Food Source
Caterpillars, aphids, beetle larvae, small flies, spiderlings
Biting/stinging
The Jack spaniard wasp may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Jack spaniard wasp has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Jack spaniard wasp can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Predatory
The Jack spaniard wasp typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of Jack spaniard wasp
It lives throughout the Caribbean and in parts of North America.
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Adult Size of Jack spaniard wasp
4 cm
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Predators of Jack spaniard wasp Larvae
Birds, rodents, various arthropods
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Predators of Adult Jack spaniard wasp
Birds, spiders, rodents, reptiles
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Interesting Facts About Jack spaniard wasp
Unlike other wasps, jack spaniard wasp can recognize individual faces, a rare cognitive feat that parallels humans and some mammals.
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Scientific Classification of Jack spaniard wasp
Tips for Finding Jack spaniard wasp
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Youth Habitat of Jack spaniard wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Jack spaniard wasp Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of jack spaniard wasp are laid within the paper-like nests that are typically attached to twigs, branches, or under eaves. Larvae develop inside these cells, safe from the environment. After pupation, adults emerge from the nests and are often seen forging on flowers or plants for nectar and sometimes found near water sources. To locate the different stages, one would examine the nests for eggs and larvae, observe the nearby flowering plants for adults, and inspect water edges or puddles for the presence of adults, especially on warm days.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Jack spaniard wasp
The best time to find jack spaniard wasp is during warm days when they are most active, particularly mid-morning to late afternoon.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Jack spaniard wasp
Warm, sunny, and dry conditions are ideal for sighting jack spaniard wasp, as wet or cold weather can reduce their activity levels.
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How and Where Can You Find Jack spaniard wasp at Different Life Stages
Egg Locate jack spaniard wasp eggs by observing the inner walls of the nests, where the adult jack spaniard wasp usually place them in a row. These nests are often found under eaves, in attics, or on the branches of trees.
Larva Jack spaniard wasp larvae will be inside the cells of the nest, which are made from chewed plant material. Finding the nest is key, and you can then observe the larvae by looking at the open cells within the nests.
Pupal To find jack spaniard wasp during the pupal stage, search in the nests where larvae were present. As jack spaniard wasp are social wasps, the pupal stage will take place in the same cells that housed the larva.
Adult Jack spaniard wasp adults can be found foraging for food, building nests, or guarding their nests. Searching flowering plants for foraging jack spaniard wasp or visually inspecting for nests around structures and trees can lead to sightings.
Are Jack spaniard wasp harmful?
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The jack spaniard wasp can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are Jack spaniard wasp harmful to humans?

Jack spaniard wasp has a sting needle at the tail, which can sting people. But it is not aggressive and rarely attacks humans unless it is threatened. Even so, it should be treated with caution, because it will be very painful after being stung, and it will cause redness and swelling.
Harmful Effects of Jack spaniard wasp
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Toxic to Humans
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Toxic to Animals
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Human Stinging
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Toxic to Humans

Jack spaniard wasp possesses a stinger for defense and may deliver venom during a sting. Humans stung by jack spaniard wasp can experience localized pain, swelling, and redness. The venom contains neurotoxins that might cause mild neurotoxic effects. Rarely, severe stings can result in nausea or headaches. Long-term complications are generally absent in individuals without allergies.

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Toxic to Animals

Jack spaniard wasp can administer venom through its sting, causing a spectrum of reactions from mild to severe. Adult jack spaniard wasp are known for stinging when they feel threatened. The effects of the sting on mammals, such as humans, dogs, and cats, can range from minor discomfort to significant allergic reactions. In birds, the reaction might lead to temporary distress or disorientation, while reptiles might experience localized swelling or pain. Arthropods, including other insects, could suffer immobilization or death upon envenomation.

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Does the Jack spaniard wasp sting humans?

Jack spaniard wasp typically sting humans in defense of their nest or when they feel threatened. Stings often occur during unintentional disturbances by humans. Females are the primary defenders and possess stingers, which can be used multiple times without harming themselves. The implications of jack spaniard wasp's stinging include pain, swelling, and potential allergic reactions in humans.

More Effects of Jack spaniard wasp

Beneficial Effects of Jack spaniard wasp
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Pollinator
Predators of Pests
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Jack spaniard wasp assists in plant pollination primarily by seeking out flowers for their pollen, which they consume for nourishment. While feeding, pollen adheres to their body and is subsequently transferred to other flowers, facilitating cross-pollination. This inadvertent yet vital process contributes to the biodiversity of ecosystems.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults
Diets
Caterpillars
Jack spaniard wasp is remarkable for its hunting technique during the larval stage. Adult females of jack spaniard wasp hunt caterpillars to feed their young. They paralyze the prey with their sting and bring it back to the nest for the larvae to consume. This behavior ensures their offspring have a fresh, live meal waiting, providing essential nutrients for growth.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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