Crocheted Wasp Nests Bring Relief to Aullwood Farm Animals

Two bonded gelding horses named Butch and Sundance stopped using their shelter at Aullwood Audubon farm. Staff discovered a wasp nest nearby, and the insects were frequently buzzing around the horses, sheep, and cows, causing the animals stress.

Aullwood's conservation staff explored using decoy wasp nests to discourage the insects from building near livestock. They conducted a comparison test between two handmade decoy types.

Testing Decoy Designs

The team monitored wasp behavior after placing the decoys. They determined a crocheted nest deterred the wasps far more successfully than a papier-mâché version. One charming observation was that the animals, especially the cows, enjoyed playing with the crocheted nests, providing additional enrichment.

There was a problem, however. Between caring for animals, managing the property, and connecting visitors with conservation, staff lacked the capacity to crochet enough nests themselves.

A Community Crochets for Conservation

To finish the job and bring the animals peace of mind, Aullwood Audubon turned to the Dayton community. Staff created crochet kits with the necessary yarn color and a pattern; they would use farm wool to stuff the completed decoy nests. A call for support on social media brought over 50 local crocheters forward to lend their time and hooks.

Julia Smith, Aullwood Audubon Volunteer Coordinator, reflected on the project. "This is the kind of project that excited me because people can do in their homes to support our mission," Smith said. "We are meeting people where they are."

Among the volunteers were members of Knitted Knockers, a non-profit that usually connects crafters with breast cancer survivors to provide handmade prosthetics. This time, members put their crochet skills to work for Aullwood's animals.

A Safer Space for Animal Ambassadors

Thanks to the volunteers, the livestock structures on the farm now have handmade nests. This helps staff provide more comfortable spaces for the farm animals. Kary Tollefson, Senior Conservation Associate, emphasized the impact. Our animal ambassadors on the farm are loved by everyone, and it is great that the public is able to provide them comfort, Tollefson said. Now our animals have a safe place to use their shelters on days when the weather is too hot or too cold.

With only ten volunteers selected from the fifty who showed interest, Aullwood staff are now looking into future opportunities for this group, dubbed the Conservation Crafters, to put their skills to good use. The project is a sign that supporting conservation can take many forms, sometimes meaning picking up a crochet hook.