Paper Wasp
Introduction
Paper wasps get their common name from the paperlike material of which
they construct their nests; this also is true of the other vespids. It has been
suggested that they be called umbrella wasps based on the shape of
their nests. In the urban situation, these usually unaggressive wasps
are a nuisance pest. Various species are found throughout the United
States.
Recognition
Adults are about 5/8-3/4 inch long. Color brownish with yellow marking, a few
species with reddish marking. Head with clypeus usually pointed at
apex. Pronotum at lateral view is almost triangular, extending to tegulae
or nearly so. Long-legged, middle tibia with two apical spurs. Hind wing
with small jugal lobe. First abdominal segment conical, not stalklike.
Habits
Paper wasps hang their nests from twigs and branches of trees and
shrubs, which can cause concern when ornamental shrubs and hedges are
trimmed or fruit is being picked from trees. If a nest is contacted,
there is high probability that the person doing the trimming or fruit
picking will be stung. Paper wasps also like to hang their comb nests
from porch ceilings, the top member of window and door frames, soffits,
eaves, attic rafters, deck floor joists and railings, etc.--almost any
protected place imaginable.
|
