Paper wasps (Polistes) are a species of wasp that play a fascinating role in ecosystems but can also pose a nuisance or hazard in homes and buildings. Known for their distinctive nests, which resemble paper lanterns, these wasps are often found around eaves, beams, and other sheltered areas. While paper wasps are generally not aggressive unless provoked, their tendency to build nests close to human habitations can lead to potential stings and other issues.
Paper wasps (mainly of the Polistes genus) are slender insects with a narrow, thread-like waist and long legs that dangle in flight. Most measure close to one inch, with coloring ranging from solid black or brown to bands of yellow, orange, or red.
Their flight pattern is relatively slow and steady compared to the rapid, darting movements of other wasp species.
They're best known for their open, comb-like nests and their taste for caterpillars, which they hunt to feed their young.
Not sure what's nesting on your property? Our wasp identification guide can help you compare species.
Call now to book your free inspection.
Paper wasps favor sheltered spots close to a food source, which is why nests so often turn up right where you'd walk past them daily. Knowing how they live makes it easier to judge whether a nest needs professional attention or can simply be left alone.
A single female wasp, known as the foundress, starts a nest in spring by chewing wood fibers into a papery pulp and shaping it into an open, umbrella-like structure. These nests are usually tucked under eaves, roof overhangs, porch ceilings, or other sheltered areas close to the home.
As the colony grows, worker wasps take over much of the building and foraging, though nests stay fairly modest compared to those of social wasps like yellowjackets.
Adult paper wasps feed mainly on nectar, making them incidental pollinators as they move between flowers. Their larvae need protein, though, so females hunt caterpillars and other soft-bodied insects, chew them up, and carry them back to the nest. Paper wasps are considered valuable natural predators of caterpillars in gardens and crops, so they're not always entirely unwelcome guests outdoors.
The foundress lays a single egg in each cell of the nest, and the resulting larvae are fed a steady diet of caterpillars until they pupate. Once mature, new wasps emerge to help expand the colony, which typically peaks in size by late summer.
As temperatures drop, most of the colony dies off, leaving only fertilized females to overwinter in sheltered spots and start new nests the following spring.
Paper wasps are generally more laid-back than yellowjackets and won't go out of their way to sting unless their nest feels threatened. Colonies tend to stay small, often peaking at a few dozen adults, which is one reason they're less likely to swarm defensively than yellowjackets or hornets. Even so, a nest built too close to a doorway can turn a quiet corner of your porch into a spot best avoided.
Paper wasps aren't considered especially aggressive, and most stings happen when someone accidentally brushes against one or disturbs a nest. Reactions vary from mild pain and swelling to more serious symptoms in people with sensitivities.
We never recommend knocking down or attempting to deal with a wasp nest yourself. When threatened, wasps can swarm and sting repeatedly. For those with allergies to wasp stings, this can be extremely dangerous.
Rely on the professionals instead. Ehrlich technicians inspect the property to help with paper wasp identification. Since paper wasp nests are treated differently from yellow jacket or hornet nests, we’ll recommend a treatment approach based on the nest's location and size.
There are relatively simple actions you can take to help prevent stinging insects from nesting in or around your property.
Controlling paper wasps around your home can be challenging and potentially dangerous, especially as these wasps are likely to defend their nests.
For safe, effective removal, contact Ehrlich Pest Control. Our team has the experience and tools to manage paper wasp infestations while minimizing risks to you and your family.
Contact us to arrange a free pest inspection.
Paper wasps can sting multiple times and do so when they feel threatened, especially if their nest is disturbed. They do not typically bite humans, as their primary defense is stinging.
Paper wasps are fascinating for their unique nest-building technique, using chewed wood to create intricate structures. They also play an essential role in ecosystems by controlling pest populations, making them beneficial to gardens despite their defensive nature.
Paper wasp colonies are relatively small compared to other wasps, generally containing a few dozen wasps (at a maximum) per nest.
Paper wasps can become a concern if their nests are located near human activity, as this increases the risk of stings. They are typically not aggressive, but it’s wise to keep a safe distance from their nests and seek professional wasp pest control if they’re too close to living spaces.
Paper wasps are attracted to sheltered areas near food sources, particularly those that offer access to sugary substances, such as nectar and fallen fruit. They’re also drawn to protein sources like insects, which they feed to their larvae.
Paper wasps are usually not aggressive, but if they perceive a threat to their nest, they may follow the intruder to defend their colony. This is a defensive behavior, as they are simply trying to protect their territory.
Paper wasps contribute to ecosystems by helping control insect populations, particularly caterpillars and other pests. They also play a role in pollination, although they are less efficient than bees.
Watch for an open, umbrella-shaped nest under eaves, in sheds, or on porches — a telltale sign of paper wasps. You may also notice increased wasp traffic flying in and out of one spot, faint buzzing near walls, or wasps hovering around outdoor eating areas. If you spot a nest, don't approach it — get in touch about wasp control so a technician can assess and treat it safely.
While paper wasps are native to many regions, including North America, several species are considered invasive. For instance, the European paper wasp (Polistes dominula), introduced to North America, has spread widely due to its adaptability to urban environments. This species is now common across the United States, from coast to coast.
Native paper wasp species are generally more reserved, while the European paper wasp is more likely to build nests close to human structures and in unconventional spots like mailboxes and outdoor light fixtures.
Call our local experts now {telNumber} ({openingHoursSummary}) or view more details about your nearest branch