Just witnessed a wasp killing a pipevine cat

10 years ago

Well, I knew in my heart the wasps that visit my garden kill the little cats. Although I'd never actually seen them killing a cat, they frequent the plants all through the day.

Just now took a break from mowing and was leaning on the deck banister when my eye caught something odd on one of the little pipevine cats. I watched and it moved off of the cat an inch or so, then came back and settled on it again. A small wasp and it was killing the little cat. I was hoping the little cats were just up inside the vines somewhere, as few have been seen the past couple of days. This little guy was out on the tip of the vine, enjoying the tiny new growth. Poor little guy. I did bring in five cats right after they hatched and they're doing well so far. Now I wish I'd brought in more.

Mary

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Comments (3)

wifey2mikey
10 years ago
It is sad. :-( I've caught wasps, praying mantids, and assassin bugs eating my caterpillars. :-( I do bring in as many as I can raise for this exact reason!

{{gwi:475062}}
MissSherry
10 years ago
'So sorry, Mary!

There are predatory stink bugs that will kill pipevine cats, too, unfortunately.

I'm glad you brought in some to raise yourself!

Sherry
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Mary Leek
Original Author
10 years ago
I managed to reach a few of the outside cats and brought them in. This afternoon, the wasp or a wasp was back and I hit him with a jet of water. He kept coming back until I guess he had enough and he stayed gone. Of course, when he dries off, he'll most assuredly be back. The little cats on the top of the vines I can't reach but I'm gathering all that are lower down. Poor little guys, I just hate that this happens.

BTW, can't tell you how delighted I am to have the use of the tomato cage 'rearing cage'. It makes it so easy to put in clean diapers and fresh food. I love using these cages; my thanks again for the heads up on the materials list and instructions.

Mary