Wasps falling from tree

Since i dont find them pests i thought this was the best place for this, but here goes?

I have a tree in my garden and dozens of wasps really do like it. They always seem to be gathering something off it, but since i've been sitting out on my patio this year i've been noticing wasps litterly falling from the tree and landing at my feet. The first time i thought it was dead, but they just walk along the patio when they land. They fall aswell rather than fly because they go vertically rather than the 8 shape they fly in.

Last week 2 fell attached to each other in fact i dont know if they were fighting.

Then this week end one fell and landed on my arm, so i shook it of and it fell onto the floor, rather than flying off.

I've googled but haven't found anything like this. Are they getting drunk or something, or damaged wings by something maybe?

 

What sort of tree is it NewbieG, they sound a little drunk to me

 

It could be the sap from the tree making there wings sticky so they cant fly!

 

Could the wasps be collecting honey dew secreted by aphids, just a thought.
I have heard of wasps becoming "drunk" on certain kinds of nectar, so as Celia says, it would be nice to know what kind of tree it is.

 

I do have a lot of black aphids on the bark so it could be that. I'll have to start another thread about the tree type because i dont know what it is.

 

Sounds bizarre NG,

Very interesting tho'. I have absolutely no idea as to what could be causing it, on the one hand sap is heavy and sticky but on the other hand if the one that landed on your arm didn't try to sting then perhaps Celia and Pete's idea is right, message us with the answer should you find it. Quite a conundrum :confused:

 

It's usually fruit wasps get drunk on we need an id of the tree ,post a picture in the id section N G.

 

Ok i'll get a picture of it and its leaves so we can id it.