Paper Wasp
Polistes
Slender wasps that build open paper nests in eaves and corners — beneficial pollinators, but capable of repeated stings when nests are disturbed.
Know the Paper Wasp
Size
1.5–2.5 cm
Appearance
Reddish-brown, yellow, or black with distinct markings; slender body with a narrow waist.
Wings
Long and translucent, resting flat over the body.
Feeding
Adults sip nectar; they hunt caterpillars and other insects to feed larvae. Drawn to sugary residues and ripened fruit.
Behavior
Slow and deliberate flight. Stingers are not barbed, so they can sting multiple times without dying. Most active in late spring and summer.
Habitat
Open umbrella-shaped nests of chewed wood pulp under eaves, ceilings, window frames, structural gaps, and outdoor furniture.
Signs of Infestation
- Open papery nests under eaves or in corners
- Wasps repeatedly entering one location
- Chewed wood scrapings near nesting material
Health & Property Risks
Stings can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Generally non-aggressive unless the nest is threatened.
A.I.R. Framework for Paper Wasp
Every paper wasp engagement follows our proven three-step methodology — tailored precisely to this pest.
Assess
Inspect sheltered exterior corners for nests and grade the threat level.
Implement
Apply targeted treatments and perform professional nest removal in protective gear.
Review
Seal entry points, remove attractants, and re-check seasonally.
Paper Wasp Questions Answered
The most common things people ask us about paper wasp — straight from years of fieldwork.
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Ready to Protect Your Space?
Choose Urban Pest Solution for comprehensive, technology-driven pest control. Our A.I.R approach makes us the ideal partner for a pest-free environment.