Erratic Ant vs Australian Paper Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Erratic Ant | Australian Paper Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tapinoma erraticum | Polistes humilis |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Formicidae | Vespidae |
| Size | 2-4 mm | 15-20 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Gardens |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia | Australia, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Erratic Ant
A small dark ant common in southern Europe that runs in characteristic erratic zigzag patterns. It nests in dry, warm habitats under stones and in rock crevices.
Did You Know?
Workers can raise their abdomens to spray defensive chemicals while simultaneously running at full speed.
Australian Paper Wasp
A common Australian paper wasp that builds small, open-celled papery nests under eaves, in shrubs, and other sheltered locations. It is a beneficial predator of caterpillars and other garden pests.
Did You Know?
Paper wasps chew wood fibres mixed with saliva to create their distinctive papery nests, a form of natural paper-making.