Wasp nests, intricate structures built by social wasps, serve as the central hub for their colonies, housing the queen, eggs, larvae, and pupae. Understanding the appearance of these nests is important for identifying the type of wasp present and for recognizing potential activity around your property. While their designs vary by species, all wasp nests share fundamental characteristics that aid in their recognition.
General Characteristics of Wasp Nests
Wasp nests are primarily constructed from a paper-like material. Wasps create this material by chewing wood fibers, often from dead wood, fences, or plant stems, and mixing them with their saliva to form a pliable pulp. As this pulp dries, it hardens into a lightweight, papery substance, which gives the nests their characteristic texture and appearance.
These nests display colors ranging from various shades of gray and brown to off-white, reflecting the source material used. Internally, most social wasp nests feature hexagonal cells, similar to honeycombs, which are used for rearing young. Some nests have exposed cells, while others are fully enclosed by a papery envelope.
Appearance by Wasp Type
Wasp nests exhibit distinct visual cues depending on the species that constructs them. These differences in shape, size, and external features help in their identification.
Paper wasps build open, single-comb nests that often resemble an inverted umbrella or a small, exposed honeycomb. The hexagonal cells are clearly visible on the underside of the nest, which is typically attached to a surface by a single, slender stalk. These nests can range from just a few cells to several hundred.
Yellowjacket nests are generally enclosed structures, covered by a papery envelope that hides the internal hexagonal cells. These nests often appear spherical or football-shaped and can grow quite large, sometimes reaching the size of a volleyball. The exterior material often has a smooth or wavy texture and is typically gray or brown.
Hornet nests are large, teardrop or oval-shaped structures, encased in a papery, multi-layered shell. Like yellowjacket nests, they feature a single entrance hole. These nests can grow substantially, sometimes reaching up to two feet in length.
Common Nest Locations
The placement of a wasp nest can provide important clues about the species residing within. Different wasp types prefer specific environments for building their homes.
Paper wasps frequently construct their umbrella-shaped nests in sheltered, elevated spots. Common locations include under eaves, porch ceilings, window frames, and within attics. They may also attach nests to tree branches, shrubs, or even inside unused items like open-ended pipes.
Yellowjackets are versatile in their nesting habits, often favoring hidden or enclosed spaces. They commonly build nests underground in abandoned rodent burrows or other subterranean cavities. Yellowjackets also establish nests in wall voids, hollow trees, dense shrubs, and even attics or sheds.
Hornets typically build their large, enclosed nests in high, sheltered locations. These can be suspended from tree branches, within large bushes, or attached to building structures like eaves and roofs. European hornets, however, often prefer more concealed spots such as wall voids, hollow trees, or attics.
Distinguishing Wasp Nests From Others
Wasp nests differ significantly from those of other insects, particularly bees, in their construction materials and appearance.
In contrast, bee nests are often constructed from wax, giving them a smoother, yellowish or brownish honeycomb appearance. Honey bee nests, for example, feature organized hexagonal cells made of beeswax, often storing honey or pollen. Unlike many wasp nests, bee nests are frequently found in cavities and may not have a prominent outer covering.