The Secrets of the Wasp Nest: The Peculiar World of the Most Underrated Insects

Wasps — amazing creatures that demonstrate social behavior and cognitive abilities far superior to other insects, particularly bees — for wasps flew and foraged for food 100 million years before bees appeared! In the book by prominent British entomologist Seirian Sumner, the exciting diversity of the world of wasps, their species and functions, important stages of their evolution, behavior and habitat, the lives of solitary hunting wasps, and colonies of wasps as a superorganism are discussed. You will get acquainted with the history of wasp study, the role of wasps as indicators of environmental health, biodiversity of ecosystems, and habitat pollution, as well as the reaction of wasp populations to increasing urbanization and a forecast of what our planet will look like if wasps disappear. By learning more about the life of these insects, which are fundamental to the ecological balance of the planet, we can learn more about ourselves and life on Earth.
«Wasps are one of nature's most mysterious and overlooked treasures. The endless variety of their forms demonstrates one of the most unpredictable and impressive achievements of evolution. Their lives are closely intertwined with the lives of other insects, as well as fungi, bacteria, plants, soil, ecosystems, and even us. The aim of this book is to seat wasps at the honorable table of nature and transform the horror and disgust that people feel towards wasps into admiration and respect that wasps deserve». (Seirian Sumner)