Paper Wasps
(Polistes spp)
Appearance
Paper wasps are reddish-orange to dark brown or black in color. They have yellowish markings on the abdomen. Paper wasps are long and slender with a narrow waist.
Size
Range from ¾ to 1-inch in length.
Behavior
Paper wasps are social insects, living in colonies containing workers, queens, and males. Queens emerge during April or May, select a nest site, and build a small paper nest in which the eggs are laid. Adults feed on nectar or other sugary solutions, and bits of caterpillars or flies that are caught and partially chewed to be fed to their young.
Habitat
A Paper wasp nest is a round, upside-down paper comb that is attached by a single stalk to a horizontal surface. This paper nest resembles an umbrella, hence this wasp's nickname: "umbrella wasp".
Paper wasps will build their nests under awnings, beneath decks, under porches, in the corners of windows, and beneath soffits. They will also sometimes nest in attics, gas grills, hose reels, and electric outlet boxes.
Interesting Facts
Paper wasps present a hazard when they build their nests near homes or structures because of their painful sting.
Control
Do you live in Florida and think this pest may be invading your home or yard? Hulett Environmental Services offers specialty pest control treatments designed to control and eliminate this pest!
