Paper wasps get their name from the paper-like material from which their nests are made. These nests are begun in the spring by fertile over-wintering females. Nests are comprised of many cells, each cell wall is made of wood pulp similar to that from which paper is made. The nests are frequently located under the eaves of houses, but may also be found inside garages, in attics, and other protected areas. They also like orchards and vineyards. Nests are often quickly rebuilt when destroyed as several adults will cooperate to form a new nest. Paper wasps are yellow and black, and are about ¾ inch to one inch in size. Their sting can be quite painful-and they will aggressively protect their nests.

Life Cycle:

Eggs develop to adults in an average of 48 days. The original queen is sometimes joined by up to six other fertile queens which assist in the nest construction and maintenance. These additional reproductives are relegated to more or less worker status, for the founding queen maintains dominance and is the only egg-laying individual. Each nest can produce as many as 200 wasps over the summer.

Main Characteristics

Call Corky's Today
1-800-901-1102