Paper Wasps
DangerousWhat it is
Slender social wasps that build open, umbrella-shaped paper combs under eaves, railings, branches, and sheltered structures. Colonies defend the nest and can sting repeatedly.
How to recognize it
Slender wasps with long, dangling legs and open, umbrella-shaped paper nests.
Where you will find it
Under eaves, railings, porch ceilings, and in sheltered structures.
Why it matters
Colonies defend the nest and can sting repeatedly, and nests are often right by doors and decks.
What to do
- Keep your distance from nests and do not swat, knock down, or spray one. Disturbed nests trigger defensive stinging.
- Keep outdoor food, drinks, and trash covered, especially in late summer.
- Keep children and pets away from the area and note where the nest is.
- Contact a licensed pest professional for nest removal.
When to call a professional
- You see a nest on or near the house, a door, or a play area.
- Anyone is allergic to stings.
- Insects enter the home from a wall, soffit, or attic.
Related reading
Related pests
Bees
A broad group of pollinating insects that includes social and solitary species. Some may nest in cavities, soil, wood, or structural voids; stinging risk varies by species and nest location.
Read more →Bumble Bees
Large, robust, fuzzy bees that usually nest in the ground or in protected cavities. They are important pollinators and are generally less aggressive away from the nest, though workers and queens can sting.
Read more →Digger Bees and Wasps
Ground-nesting solitary bees or wasps that excavate individual burrows in bare or sandy soil. Most are not aggressive away from their nests and many are beneficial pollinators or predators.
Read more →Honey Bees
Highly social pollinating bees that live in colonies with a queen and workers. They may establish nests in tree cavities, wall voids, chimneys, or other enclosed spaces and can sting when the colony is threatened.
Read more →This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Pests vary by region and situation, and an on-site inspection is the reliable way to know what you have.