Explaining Insects 🦋 on Instagram: "Mud daubers are solitary wasps known for building tube-shaped nests out of mud on walls, ceilings, and other sheltered surfaces. Unlike social wasps, they are generally non-aggressive and rarely sting unless handled. Mud daubers hunt spiders, which they paralyze and store inside their nests as food for their larvae. Despite their intimidating appearance, they help control spider populations and usually avoid contact with humans. Follow @explaininginsects for

Explaining Insects 🦋 on Instagram: "The tarantula hawk is a large, metallic-blue wasp known for its bright orange wings and powerful presence. Despite its intimidating look, it feeds on nectar and plays a role as a pollinator. Its name comes from its unique life cycle: the female locates a tarantula, temporarily paralyzes it with a precise sting, and uses it as a living nursery for her larva. The larva then develops safely with a fresh food source. The tarantula hawk’s sting is considered one o