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Metric Paper Wasp
ExploreInsects
Metric Paper Wasp
Polistes metricus
The Metric Paper Wasp is a friendly insect that builds nests out of paper-like material. They are helpful because they eat pests like caterpillars and flies, making gardens healthier!
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The Metric Paper Wasp has a slender, reddish-brown body with distinct yellow markings, particularly on its head and abdomen. It's identifiable by its unique way of folding its wings lengthwise when at rest, making them appear narrow and pointed.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHymenopteraFamilyEumenidaeGenusPolistes
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
The tiny wasp larvae produce a sugary liquid that adult wasps love to drink!
They often build their umbrella-shaped paper nests under sheltered eaves or porch roofs!
Wasp queens can produce a special chemical to keep other females from laying eggs!
Worker wasps communicate danger to their sisters using vibrations and chemical signals!
Special abilities
Ability
Paper Architect
Metric Paper Wasp can build intricate nests from chewed wood fibers and saliva, which helps them create a safe home for their young.
Ability
Defensive Jab
Metric Paper Wasp has a potent sting that helps them protect their colony from predators and perceived threats.
Ability
Insect Hunter
Metric Paper Wasp can hunt and paralyze caterpillars and other insect larvae, providing protein-rich food for its growing young.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 25-35 mm
- Size
- 13-20 mm
- Lifespan
- 30-60 days
- Flight Speed
- 20 km/h
- Leg Count
- 6
- Colony Size
- 200
Diet & Feeding
Adults drink nectar, while larvae feast on chewy insects like caterpillars!
Age differences: Adults consume plant sugars; larvae are fed captured insects by worker wasps.
Primary Foods
- nectar
- fruit juices
- caterpillars
- insect larvae
- honeydew
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
hunts
Eastern Tent Caterpillar
Malacosoma americanum
Prey for developing wasp larvae.
hunts
Tobacco Hornworm
Manduca sexta
Common caterpillar prey for protein.
eaten by
European Garden Spider
Araneus diadematus
Can be caught in spider webs.
pollinates
Common Milkweed
Asclepias syriaca
Adults visit flowers for nectar.
Traits
Social
Social animals live in organized groups, cooperating for survival benefits such as foraging, defense, and raising offspring.
Omnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet includes both plant and animal matter.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Insectivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet primarily consists of insects and other small invertebrates.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Keystone Species
Describes a species whose presence and role have a disproportionately large effect on its environment.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
If you see a wasp, it's best to stay calm and not swat at it. Just watch from a distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Metric Paper Wasp's wingspan?
25-35 mm
How big is Metric Paper Wasp?
13-20 mm
How long does Metric Paper Wasp live?
30-60 days
How fast can Metric Paper Wasp fly?
20 km/h
What does Metric Paper Wasp eat?
Adults drink nectar, while larvae feast on chewy insects like caterpillars!
Where is Metric Paper Wasp usually found?
Urban areas
How does Metric Paper Wasp hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Metric Paper Wasp have?
6
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