Paper Wasp
ExploreInsects
Paper Wasp
Polistes macaensis (Fabricius)
Paper Wasps are slender wasps that make umbrella-shaped nests out of paper. They are important for pollination!
Habitat: Gardens and forests
Appearance
The Paper Wasp has a slender body, often black with distinctive yellow markings and a narrow "waist." Its long legs typically dangle below as it flies, distinguishing it from bees. The wings are usually smoky brown.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHymenopteraFamilyVespidaeGenusPolistes
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
3/5 · Moderate
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Female paper wasps are the only ones that can sting you!
Their nests are rarely reused; new ones are built every season!
Wasp larvae feed their mothers a sugary liquid in exchange for food!
Wasp venom is being studied as a potential anti-cancer agent!
Special abilities
Ability
Paper Architects
Paper Wasps can build nests from chewed wood fibers because they collect and process cellulose into a pulp that hardens into a sturdy home.
Ability
Venomous Defense
Paper Wasps have a potent sting that helps them protect their colony and resources from predators and intruders.
Ability
Pest Control Partner
Paper Wasps can hunt and paralyze insect pests like caterpillars, helping farmers protect their crops naturally.
Ability
Facial Recognition
Paper Wasps can recognize individual nest mates by their unique facial patterns, helping them manage social order.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 30-40 mm
- Size
- 15-25 mm
- Lifespan
- 15-365 days
- Flight Speed
- 20 km/h
- Leg Count
- 6
- Colony Size
- 200
Diet & Feeding
They feast on insect pests and also enjoy nectar from flowers for energy!
Age differences: Adults primarily consume nectar and honeydew, while larvae are fed chewed insects by adults.
Primary Foods
- Caterpillars
- Fly larvae
- Spiders
- Nectar
- Honeydew
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
hunts
Cabbage White Caterpillar
Pieris rapae
Prey for wasp larvae growth
eaten by
House Crow
Corvus splendens
Bird preys on adult wasps
pollinates
Lantana
Lantana camara
Wasp collects flower nectar
Traits
Wildlife
Wildlife encompasses all undomesticated animal and plant life existing in their natural habitats.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Omnivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet includes both plant and animal matter.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
Vespid WaspVespula
Collections
Safety
Danger
3/5 · Moderate
Do not touch or pick up. Some insects sting or bite. Ask an adult for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Paper Wasp's wingspan?
30-40 mm
How big is Paper Wasp?
15-25 mm
How long does Paper Wasp live?
15-365 days
How fast can Paper Wasp fly?
20 km/h
What does Paper Wasp eat?
They feast on insect pests and also enjoy nectar from flowers for energy!
Where is Paper Wasp usually found?
Gardens and forests
How does Paper Wasp hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Paper Wasp have?
6
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