About Paper Wasp
Paper wasps (Polistes spp.) are slender, narrow-waisted wasps measuring 16–20 mm with brown bodies and yellow or orange markings. They construct open, umbrella-shaped nests from chewed plant fiber and saliva, attached under eaves, deck railings, door frames, and outdoor furniture. Colonies are small (typically 15–200 workers) compared to yellow jackets, and wasps are relatively tolerant of human presence unless the nest is directly threatened. They are beneficial predators that hunt caterpillars and other soft-bodied insects to feed their larvae. Nests sited away from high-traffic areas are best left undisturbed.
Geographic Distribution
This insect is found across Europe, with notable populations in France and surrounding regions.
Management
If you suspect a Paper Wasp problem, consult our recommended exterminator services or browse our full pest species database for related species and control guidance.