Paper Wasp: Everything You Need to Know

Paper wasp are the most common species around homes in the United States, which people mostly encounter while they are gardening or doing outdoor housework. Those insects that have a reputation for their nests and play a positive role in the control of garden pests are also the myrmecophilous that can be betrayers, especially when those nests are in close range of human activities. This blog will cover the questions of whether paper wasps are aggressive, the lifespan of a paper wasp, and how to get rid of paper wasps, among other topics. It would be very helpful indeed if you need trustworthy and practical information.

What is a Paper Wasp?

The word paper wasp comes from the paper-like material these wasp uses for their nests. Since paper wasps make nests that can found under the roof edge, at the top of porches, and on trees, their nest design is like an open umbrella shape. Most paper wasps have long legs, skinny waists, and are long and thin.

Are Paper Wasps Aggressive?

One of the typical questions that a property owner will ask is, Are paper wasps aggressive? The reply to this is complicated. These insects are calm by nature and do not want to sting anyone or anything. But if someone disrupts their nest unfairly or provokes them, then these insects will use their stings in defense. If the paper wasps and the bees were two sides of the same coin, then certainly they would be different because bees can sting only once, however, paper wasps can do it several times, which means they can be more dangerous if they are disturbed. Their stings are quite painful and may also bring out allergic reactions among those who are sensitive to them. So, it is always a good idea to be careful near their nests.

One thing we should keep in minds is that paper wasps may be aggressive, but they generally only become a danger if their nests are physically disturbed. In all other cases, they are quite calm and even good, because they allow the garden to be free of pests.

Lifespan of Paper Wasp

The lifespan of paper wasp can be significant if you need to get rid of a nest of wasps or you are just a curious person. The lifespan of a paper wasp depends on the role they have in the colony.

1. Queens: The queen of a colony is the one that lives the longest, normally, she is around one year old. She lives through the winter in safe places and starts a new colony in spring.
2. Workers: The worker paper wasps are alive for several months (generally, from spring to late summer or early fall).
3. Males (Drones): Male paper wasps are the shortest cool life, existing for just a few weeks or to month. Their main function is to join with new queens.

Natural conditions, enemies of wasps, and humans may still give a lifespan to the paper wasp location a change.

How Do I Get Rid of Paper Wasps?

You might ask How do I get rid of paper wasps, Here are some good ideas.

1. Locate the Nest: First thing to do is to identify the nest. The usual places are under the eaves or in a protected outdoor area.
2. DIY Chemical Treatment: In general, the wasp sprays can work. Spray wasp nests directly, preferably at night, as wasps are not very active at that time. Make sure that you follow all safety rules, focus on the queen to break the colony’s life cycle.
3. Physical Removal: If the nest is dead or you have completed the treatment, you can pick it up safely with a broom or pole. Use of clothing and gloves is a must.
4. Professional Help: You should contact professionals if you don’t know what wasp it is and the nest is either hard to reach or rather large. They will handle the removal of the nests safely and quickly since they are trained and equip for the job.

Conclusion

Paper wasps are interesting insects that assist in reducing the number of plant pests. Even though many people wonder if paper wasps are aggressive, they are usually not unless someone troubles them. Members of the colony have different lifespans, where queens live for as long as a year, workers and males for less than that. When you notice paper wasps, make sure to deal with them early, check their identity, and use safe ways to get rid of them. If you have a continuous or widespread problem, get the help of experts. When you learn about paper wasp, you can protect your home as well as appreciate their positive contributions to nature