Paper Wasp
Paper wasps are known for their distinctive umbrella-shaped nests made of papery material.
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What do these Wasps look like?
These wasps are usually yellow or brown with darker markings, and they can be aggressive when threatened.
Quick information about Paper Wasp
- USUALLY FOUND IN: NESTS UNDER EAVES AND OLD BUILDINGS
- FEEDS ON: INSECT LARVAE AND ROTTEN FRUIT
- BITES/STINGS: STING
- SIZE/COLOR: 15MM / BROWN WITH YELLOW MARKINGS
- SEASON: LATE SUMMER
- TREATABLE AT HOME: YES BY TRAPS, DUSTS OR SPRAYS
Information About Paper Wasp
Locale On Property
Homeowners should pay special attention to porch ceilings, around roof eaves, soffits, attic rafters, windows and doorframes, as these are places where paper wasps congregate.
Description
Adult paper wasps tend to have a brownish colouring with yellow markings (although a few paper wasp species have red markings).
Concerns
Paper wasp stings can be very painful and can cause the same risk of allergic reaction as other insect stings. The location of the sting will become red and swollen.
Everyone deserves a pest-free home.
At Avayda, we know that you want a pest free home, regardless of the time of year. In order to do that, you need the right team and products to help remove invaders and keep them out for good. The problem is you’ve tried to solve it yourself, or you don’t have the time, and they keep coming back. Ultimately, you’re afraid they’ll never go away.
Everyone deserves a pest-free home. And we understand that your home has to be safe for you and your family. Free from any kind of insect, pest, or unwanted guest. We’ve helped create pest-free homes for 10,000+ customers, and we’re ready to help. We offer year-round pest services with safe products for the whole family and a guarantee that they’ll be out of your house for good.
Paper Wasps: Risks and Effective Control Methods
Paper wasps are a common stinging insect across many parts of North America. Although they’re less aggressive than yellow jackets, they still pose a risk when they build nests near homes, patios, or walkways. Recognizing a paper wasp problem early and knowing how to manage it is essential to keeping your home and family safe.
This guide will help you identify paper wasps, understand their behavior, and explore safe and effective ways to prevent and remove them.
What Are Paper Wasps?
Paper wasps get their name from the papery material they use to build their nests, which they create by chewing wood fibers and mixing them with saliva. These nests are often umbrella-shaped and hang from eaves, porch ceilings, and overhangs. While paper wasps aren’t typically aggressive, they will sting if they feel their nest is threatened.
Paper wasps are often mistaken for yellow jackets or hornets, but their long legs and open nests help distinguish them.
Are Paper Wasps Dangerous?
Paper wasps are not as aggressive as some other wasps, but they will sting if provoked. Their sting can be painful and may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Unlike bees, paper wasps can sting multiple times.
Common Risk Situations:
- Accidentally disturbing a nest while gardening, cleaning, or working near eaves
- Children or pets coming too close to an active nest
- Individuals with wasp sting allergies being stung even once
It’s important to exercise caution if you find a nest near your home, especially if it’s in a high-traffic area.
Where Paper Wasps Build Nests
Paper wasps prefer sheltered locations that are protected from rain and wind. Common nesting sites include:
- Under roof eaves and overhangs
- On porch ceilings and railings
- Inside sheds or open garages
- On outdoor furniture or fencing
- In attic vents or light fixtures
Since nests are built in visible, open locations, early detection is usually possible — which helps with control and removal.
How to Get Rid of Paper Wasps
1. Identify and Monitor the Nest
Observe paper wasp activity during the day to find the nest. Wasps are most active in the heat of the day, but nests should be treated in the evening when activity is lower.
2. Use a Wasp Insecticide Spray
For small nests, use a wasp spray that can shoot from a safe distance (10–15 feet). Spray at night when the wasps are less active and all are likely to be inside the nest.
3. Remove the Nest After Treatment
Wait 24 hours after spraying, then check for any remaining activity. If the nest is inactive, remove it carefully using gloves and dispose of it in a sealed bag.
4. Consider Professional Pest Control
If the nest is large, difficult to reach, or you are allergic to stings, it’s best to contact a pest control professional. They have the proper safety equipment and experience to remove nests without risk.
How to Prevent Paper Wasps from Nesting
- Inspect regularly: Check under eaves, around decks, and in outdoor structures during spring and summer
- Seal entry points: Close off gaps in siding, soffits, and attic vents where wasps might enter
- Use decoy wasp nests: Paper wasps are territorial and may avoid areas where other nests already exist
- Keep food and garbage covered: Outdoor sweets and proteins attract wasps in late summer
When to Call a Professional
You should consider hiring a professional pest control service if:
- The nest is located near frequent human activity
- You are allergic to wasp stings
- The nest is large or in a hard-to-reach place
- You’ve experienced repeat infestations
Professional treatments not only remove active nests, but also include preventive strategies to keep wasps away in the future.
Paper wasps are beneficial in nature because they help control insect populations, but when they build nests around your home, they can become a threat. Knowing how to identify and safely remove these wasps — or when to call in help — is key to avoiding painful encounters.
Avayda Pest Control offers safe, fast, and effective wasp removal services. If you’ve spotted a paper wasp nest on your property, contact us today for professional inspection and treatment.