Where Do Paper Wasps Go in the Winter?
WouterDuring the winter, the paper wasps go into a slumber. These insects are known for the paper-like nests they build, which are made of plant fibers and saliva. They are also predators of arthropods. They feed on insects and sugar.
They may enter a home through a soffit or crack. They can also enter through the roof or window frames. These insects are not aggressive by nature, but they may sting if they are disturbed. The stings can cause an allergic reaction. If you suspect you have a wasp problem, it is important to call a licensed pest control company. This will ensure that the problem is resolved safely and without stinging.
The female paper wasps are known for entering homes and hiding in attics. They enter through tiny cracks in the roofline or the wall voids. They also hide in warm attics. In spring, they start building a nest. They lay eggs in the nest cells. When it is warm, the queen wasps emerge.
The queen wasps of a new colony search for a place to overwinter. They may choose to live inside the chimney or in the voids between the floor joists. They then become workers to help establish the new colony.
In the fall, the worker wasps start to die off. The old queen and infertile wasps also die. The queen is the life line of the paper wasp species. The queen must build a nest for her colony to survive.
