“Dalhousie University Study: Metal Contamination in Abandoned Wasp Nests”

As the snow melts in Nova Scotia, researchers at Dalhousie University are seeking abandoned paper wasp nests for a study on heavy metal contamination. Carlie Ashton, an environmental science student at Dal’s agricultural campus, is leading the research to analyze nests from urban and rural areas for copper and chromium levels. She anticipates higher metal concentrations in nests from urban locations due to potential exposure to wood preservatives. Anyone discovering a nest is encouraged to contact Ashton to contribute to the study, as the wasps have died off during winter, leaving behind empty nests. By May, Ashton aims to collect all specimens for analysis despite their condition post-winter. The research aims to determine if aerial yellowjackets and bald-faced hornets can serve as indicators of heavy metal presence, shedding light on the pressures these insects face. Assistant professor Paul Manning highlights the importance of understanding the impact of contaminants on insect populations amid global declines. While the study does not focus on the effects of contamination on wasps, previous research suggests potential negative impacts on their lifespan and reproductive abilities due to copper exposure.