Are Paper Wasps Good For Anything?
WouterWhether you like them or not, paper wasps can be a pest. Their aggressive nature makes them a danger to you and your property. They also can sting you, which can be painful. Fortunately, there are ways to get rid of them. But before you take action, you should know what to do if you notice paper wasps in your home.
Paper wasps are part of the Hymenoptera order. They can be found in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They have retractable stingers and are part of the Polistes genus. They can be found in a wide range of colors, including solid black, solid yellow, and solid red. They also have a tapered abdomen and a daintier waist.
Paper wasps build their nests out of paper and wood. They prefer areas that have a wood structure. They also collect dried fibrous materials. During their active season, adult paper wasps feed larvae and caterpillars. They also forage for nectar. Other animals and insects also seek out paper wasp larvae as a food source.
In the spring, paper wasps emerge and start building a nest. Their queen lays eggs. Other females help build the nest. Once the queen dies, a new queen begins to lay eggs. The newly minted queen will hibernate for the winter before forming a new colony in the spring.
When you’re dealing with paper wasps, you’ll want to wear thick, long-sleeved clothing, such as a bee suit. This will keep you protected from stings and prevent you from getting chemical pesticides on your skin. You should also wear safety glasses and gloves when you’re trying to eliminate the wasps.
