The smallest bites

One day, I noticed this insect sitting on a cloth, and I took a few photos to show it to my family. I wanted to ask about the type of insect because some insects have previously attacked us, causing swelling, a burning sensation, and some farm workers had to be hospitalized. Therefore, one can never be certain because such events can strike with such speed that no one will be prepared.

Thankfully, the above insect, also known as a paper wasp, if I am not wrong, is quite harmless. There are poisonous ones that do build nests near our house, though, and these can cause problems if the nest is disturbed.

The poisonous insect that we locally call 'kadannal' - Hornet or wasp in general, has a strong sting. Unlike the local - Kulavi that tries to build a nest in every part of our house, the hornet is rare but very dangerous, and one must be careful while destroying the nest.

Life near a forest is very beautiful, but at the same time, it is full of dangers like snakes, wild animals, strange plants, and so on. So, if one is living with children, it must be made clear that berries from the wild should not be eaten before checking. The same goes for mushroom picking. Not every mushroom is edible. Many people have had food poisoning because they ate poisonous mushrooms. I avoid eating mushrooms in restaurants because one can never be sure about them.

Lizards are a nuisance, but they do eat small insects and house flies. So, it is better to ignore a lizard or two inside the house. That is what I am saying to convince myself because I simply am averse to these.

The next category is stray cats that are a nuisance. If they had helped to keep the rats away in the yard, it would have been better, but cats seem to be more bothered about peeing before the front door.

In spite of all this, it is still wonderful to live in tune with nature. Just be aware of what lives along with you.

image - own
Jai Sai Ram