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Entomology (Study of Bugs)/pottery nest
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Question
A customer at our lodge found this at about 6000' elevation in southeast Utah, Pinion/Juniper forested, <10" annual precipitation. I am the resident biologist (Wildlife Bio BS Colorado State U 1983 and 1 class in entomology) :-) and have been challenged with identification. Help!
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Hi Jim; A perfect example of the work of a Sphecid wasp called a mud dauber. Without seeing the wasp I cannot tell you the Genus ; possibly Sceliphon. Daubers are solitary wasps and lay eggs in the mud nest along with paralyzed spiders to feed the maggot. I found a photo similar to this one at this web site.
pestcemetary.com/mud-daubers-natures-perfect-potters/
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Entomology (Study of Bugs)
Answers by Expert:
Walter Hintz
Expertise
I can answer any questions about insects and spiders.
Experience
I have taught science for over 57 years. I am presently teaching biology at the college level. I have done extensive graduate work in entomology.
Publications
Momentum Magazine
The Ohio Journal of Science
Education/Credentials
B.S. In Ed Kent State Unuv
M.Sc The Ohio State Univ
National Science Foundation Fellowships:
Electron Microscopy Univ of California
Entomology Kent State Univ
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