Nesting Behavior of Cerceris zonata (Hymenoptera: Philanthidae)

The nesting behavior of Cerceris zonata Cresson was observed on San Salvador Island, the Bahamas during June 1978 and 1980. In general, nesting activities of this species were similar to those described for other Cerceris. The females made multicelled nests which they provisioned with chrysomelid beetles. The prey were carried to the nest in the wasp's mandibles. Nest entrances were open during hunting, and females entered directly with prey. Females searching for nests were common at the site; they sometimes usurped nests from the current provisioners. All females eventually abandoned their nests. Some entered other of the nests we were observing; others were seen searching but did not enter nests in the area. All nests we observed were occupied and provisioned by a series of different females. Few cases of nest sharing were observed.