Fig. 17.—Polistes Gallica.
The general habits of these wasps are pretty uniform except in the matter of their architecture, and in this respect they display a remarkable variety.
Fig. 18.—Nest of Polistes Gallica.
Besides the common Wasp (Vespa vulgaris) two other species found in this country, which build their nests in the ground, follow the same principles in the construction of their nests.
The Hornet (Vespa crabo), which is remarkable for its large size, usually builds its nest in the hollow of a tree. Both the hornet and common wasp sometimes build their nests under the eaves of houses or attached to a beam under the roof; and in these cases the outer covering of the nest is thinner and more delicate in texture than when the dwelling is exposed to the vicissitudes of the weather. Another common species inhabiting Britain is the Wood Wasp (Vespa sylvestris), which builds nests suspended from the branches of trees.
Fig. 19.—Odynerus Ovalis (Mag.)
Family 4, Eumenidæ.—One of the commonest and best-known species belonging to this family is the Wall Wasp (Odynerus parietum), which may be almost constantly seen haunting sunny walls during the months of June and July. It makes its burrows in walls and high banks, while many other allied species form their nests in the hollow stems of brambles.
Family 5, Masaridæ.—This family contains the great bulk of the solitary wasps, which, however, are principally inhabitants of warm climates.