Paper wasps, a common type of social wasp, are often encountered near human dwellings. They construct distinctive paper-like nests. While their presence can sometimes cause concern, paper wasps play a significant role in maintaining ecological balance. This article explores their characteristics, beneficial contributions to gardens, and practical approaches for peaceful coexistence.
Recognizing Paper Wasps
Identifying paper wasps involves observing several physical features and nest characteristics. These wasps typically measure between 0.75 and 1.25 inches in length, possessing a slender body with a narrow waist. Their coloration varies by species, ranging from reddish-brown to black, often accented with yellow markings. A key identifying trait is their wings, which fold lengthwise along their bodies when at rest.
Paper wasp nests are unique, earning them the nickname “umbrella wasps.” They construct these nests from wood fibers chewed and mixed with saliva, creating a papery material. Unlike the enclosed nests of yellowjackets or hornets, paper wasp nests feature open, hexagonal cells that are visible from below. These nests are typically suspended by a single stalk in sheltered locations, such as under eaves, porch ceilings, or tree branches.
Differentiating paper wasps from yellowjackets and hornets is important, as their behaviors differ. Yellowjackets are generally more compact, with pronounced yellow and black stripes, and they build concealed nests, sometimes underground or within wall voids. Hornets are typically larger than paper wasps and yellowjackets, with specific body markings. Paper wasps are generally less aggressive than these relatives, primarily defending their nests only when directly threatened.
Ecological Contributions
Paper wasps are effective natural pest controllers within garden ecosystems. They are predators of various insect pests, making them valuable for gardeners and agriculture. Their diet primarily consists of caterpillars, including corn earworms, armyworms, loopers, hornworms, webworms, and oak worms. They also prey on beetle larvae and flies, which they capture and chew up to feed to their developing larvae.
This predatory behavior helps regulate pest populations naturally, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Introducing paper wasps can effectively decrease pest populations and plant damage in crops like corn and sugarcane. Some plants have even evolved to attract wasps, developing extrafloral nectaries that provide sugary secretions to encourage their presence for pest control.
Beyond predation, paper wasps also contribute to pollination. Though they lack the dense body hair of bees, they visit flowers to feed on nectar, honeydew, or the sugary liquid produced by their larvae. This activity can lead to incidental pollen transfer between plants. They can facilitate pollen transfers, particularly for plants that primarily self-pollinate, such as beans and tomatoes.
Minimizing Conflicts
Paper wasps are generally not aggressive unless they perceive a direct threat to themselves or their nest. Their defensive behavior intensifies during late summer and early fall when colonies reach peak size and food sources may become scarcer.
To minimize stings, avoid sudden movements or swatting near paper wasps. If a wasp lands on you, remaining calm allows it to move away without feeling threatened. Awareness of nest locations is also important; nests are often found in sheltered areas like eaves, under deck railings, or in dense vegetation.
If a nest poses a direct risk, such as near a doorway, removal may be necessary. It is recommended to remove nests in the evening when wasps are less active and most are inside. For larger or hard-to-reach nests, or if there are concerns about allergic reactions, professional pest control services are a safer option. Sealing potential entry points into homes and and securing outdoor food sources can also deter wasps from nesting or foraging in undesirable areas.