Large Mason Wasp

This beautiful insect is the Large Mason Wasp (Abispa ephippium), also commonly known as the Large Mud-nesting Wasp, Large Potter Wasp or Australian Hornet.  Belonging to the family of  Australia’s largest wasps,  these solitary wasps are quite common around the garden and are generally non aggressive. They can often be seen around water or mud as they gather material to build their large mud nests.  The adult wasps will feed on flower nectar and will capture and paralyse caterpillars  for their developing larvae.