Today Maddie spotted the most beautiful hive up in our tree.. Isn't it gorgeous??? I can't believe that we haven't spotted it before now. I have to say it is one of the coolest things I have ever seen in person. It really looks like a ball of twine up there that someone drilled a hole into. Just amazing.From the research we have done it appears to be a Bald Face Hornets Nest. It seems that they are most common in the Southeastern United States. They are best known for their large football shaped paper nest that can sometimes reach 3 feet tall. Supposedly the nest will be abandoned by winter and will not be reused.
As a home school family I think it would be great if we could leave it in the tree and watch nature take it's course over the coming months. We can study and read about the species and watch the changes that occur. If you happen to be in our area and want to see it for yourself let me know. In the meantime I will be sure to keep you posted on growth and activity.
They are amazing! This one is more interesting than the yellow jacket one we had in our tree last year. It is still there - it was supposed to dissolve during the winter but it really didn't. Supposedly they do not reuse nests either.
ReplyDeleteAnother wonder that God created. As we came home tonight and drove down our street, lots of fireflies were out. Tis the season. I saw there glowing little bottoms and thought how wonderfully imaginative God is. Who would think of such a creature?
Love the new background!
This is such a great find. Go Maddie! I can't wait to see more about what you guys learn.
ReplyDeleteThanks Lesli..we are super excited about it. The kid told them to behave while we are in the mountains. Cute. Surprised they haven't asked their dad to go check on them. I am glad it is somewhere in the front yard as opposed to the back where they or the dog might have gotten into it. I will definitely keep you posted. :)
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