Wasps As Harbingers

Researchers confirmed that Cerceris fumipennis (Cerceris), a native wasp that preys on Emerald Ash Borers (EAB), was found at Emerson Park in suburban Skokie, IL. The discovery was a result of a partnership between The Morton Arboretum and the Illinois Parks and Recreation Association. Now, researchers hope that the wasp will serve as a sort of ?EUR??,,????'?????<

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Researchers hope that earlier detection in ash trees will help communities better control and manage infestations.
Cerceris wasps nest in the ground, commonly in open areas of hard-packed sandy soil with ash trees nearby.

Athletic fields, such as ball diamonds, volleyball courts, horse shoe pits, and even parking lots are common nesting locations. The nests are characterized by pencil-diameter holes on top of little mounds of sand. The wasps are most active during summer months, when they feed on a whole family of wood-boring insects called Buprestid, of which EAB is a member, according to Devin Krafka, Research Assistant at The Morton Arboretum.

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