Paper wasps (Polistes species) are common insects often mistaken for their more aggressive cousins, the yellow jackets, or certain bees. They construct distinctive nests from papery material, frequently attaching them to eaves, overhangs, or sheltered structures near human dwellings. While their presence can cause alarm, understanding their typical behavior and the potential danger of their venom is important.
Identifying Paper Wasps and Their Aggression
Paper wasps are characterized by a slender body with a noticeable narrow connection between the thorax and abdomen, often described as a slim “waist.” Their long legs dangle visibly beneath them when they fly, which helps distinguish them from the more compact yellow jackets. The nests they build are also a key identifier, consisting of a single, open layer of hexagonal cells that resembles an inverted umbrella attached by a short stalk. Paper wasps are generally considered less aggressive than yellow jackets or hornets. A paper wasp sting usually only occurs when the wasp is physically threatened, such as being accidentally trapped against the skin, or when its nest is directly disturbed. They have been known to exhibit warning behavior before escalating to a full defense.
Pain Level and Localized Reaction to a Sting
A paper wasp delivers venom that causes immediate and intense discomfort, often described as a sharp, burning sensation. This level of pain is notably higher than a common bee sting. For most individuals, the reaction remains localized to the area immediately surrounding the puncture. Typical symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, and warmth at the sting site, which usually subside within a few hours to a day. In some cases, a “large local reaction” may occur, characterized by swelling that spreads outward, sometimes reaching up to 10 centimeters. These larger reactions are not systemic and can be managed with cold compresses and over-the-counter antihistamines.
Recognizing Systemic Allergic Reactions
The most severe danger associated with a paper wasp sting is the risk of a systemic allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis. This body-wide response occurs in sensitive individuals and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of anaphylaxis typically involve more than just the sting site, developing rapidly and affecting multiple bodily systems. Specific symptoms to watch for include:
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or tightness in the throat or chest.
- Swelling of the tongue or face.
- Dizziness, a rapid or weak pulse, or a sudden drop in blood pressure.
- Severe nausea, vomiting, or widespread hives appearing away from the sting site.
Individuals with a known venom allergy should use an epinephrine auto-injector immediately if these symptoms appear, and then seek emergency medical care.
Safe Strategies for Prevention and Nest Management
Reducing the risk of a paper wasp sting involves both personal avoidance and strategic nest management. To prevent attraction, keep outdoor food and sugary drinks covered, and secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids. Sealing small cracks and crevices around the home’s exterior can eliminate sheltered spots where queens might establish a new colony in the spring. For nest removal, small, newly started nests can often be knocked down safely in the early spring. Removing an established nest should be done with caution, preferably at night when the wasps are least active and all are inside the structure. For large, multi-season nests or those located in high-traffic areas, contacting a professional exterminator is the safest course of action.