Their use of large objects to geo-locate and love of sugary treats may make them a nuisance, but we can’t live without them

When I am asked to choose my favourite insect, I have no hesitation in choosing the common wasp (Vespula vulgaris). I have been stung many times, having first fallen into a wasp nest at 5 years old – though the young me was spared many stings as the wasps became entangled in the thick sweater my great-aunt had knitted.

But the wasp gets your attention and causes a reaction. It is perhaps the Marmite of the insect world, you love it or hate it but you’re never indifferent and that gives me something to work on.

  • @shalafi@lemmy.worldEnglish
    1•3 months ago

    Simply don’t make eye contact. Their tiny brains can pattern match on a face, and they’re on you if they perceive a threat. So don’t spaz out and wave your arms around. Ignore them.

    Had a nest over my front door last year. I didn’t look at them, they didn’t look at me. For that matter, my pig was in and out that door all day. They ignored him as well.