Paper Wasps

Active Seasons

Appearance and Size Facts

Reddish-orange to dark brown or black in color
Yellowish markings on the abdomen
Long and slender with a narrow waist
Size: Range from 3/4 to 1-inch in length
Social insects, live in colonies containing workers, queens, and males.
Nest is round, upside-down paper comb that is attached by a single stalk to a horizontal surface.

Behavior and Habitat

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. 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.

Signs of Infestation

The workers and the nest are the most likely signs

Tips for Prevention

Sweep and remove papernests regualrly

Paper Wasp Gallery

Latest News

Weather and its Impact on Pests

Jul 23, 2019—Insects, Pest Control

We know that weather and seasonal changes affect human behavior and outside activities, so it’s no big surprise that heat and cold, along with dry and wet conditions also affect pest populations. While seasonal changes can be subtle in the South Florida; these changes can send pests looking...