As summer winds down, many of us notice more flying insects buzzing around. While some are harmless, others, like wasps, can sting. Wasps, in particular, have a reputation for causing panic, though most aren’t dangerous. It’s easy to lump all wasps into the “pest” category, but that’s not always fair.
When you think of wasps, your first thoughts probably aren’t pleasant—maybe you picture aggressive pests that ruin picnics. I get it! Having been stung myself as both a kid and an adult, I understand why they make people uneasy.
However, did you know not all wasps are out to get you? In fact, there are tens of thousands of species worldwide, including about 4,000 in the U.S. alone. They’ve been around since the Jurassic period, making them part of our ecosystem for roughly 200 million years!
Wasps come in various families, so not all are harmful. Some actually play a crucial role by eating pests that can damage your garden. But can you tell the difference between a bee and a wasp when you spot one outside? Do you know which wasps to avoid and which are helpful?
Let’s dive into the world of wasps so next time you see one, you’ll know whether to stay calm or be cautious. Bookmark this guide for future reference!
What is a Wasp?
Wasps, those buzzing insects that you often see more of in the late summer, are not just a nuisance. They actually play a crucial role in our ecosystem. Sporting stingers, wasps are dynamic creatures known for their pest control capabilities.
They actively hunt and feed on common garden pests like flies, spiders, and caterpillars, providing a natural balance by keeping these populations in check.
Wasps are not just fierce predators; they’re also pollinators. Found everywhere except Antarctica, these winged wonders visit a variety of flowers, not just for nectar—which is their main source of carbohydrates—but also to pollinate.
Unlike bees, wasps aren’t choosy about the flowers they visit, making them less selective pollinators. There are over 30,000 identified species of wasps worldwide, each varying in size, color, and nesting habits.
Regarding their diet, adult wasps primarily feed on nectar since they don’t consume the insects they capture. This distinguishes them from bees, who get protein from pollen and follow a more plant-based diet. On the other hand, wasps are considered carnivorous due to their protein intake from other insects.
When it comes to their living arrangements, wasps are versatile. They can build their nests in a variety of places—from under the eaves of buildings to tucked away inside tree trunks or even burrowed in the ground. The location largely depends on the wasp species.
While they can be aggressive if threatened, especially near their nests, wasps generally don’t pose a risk to humans unless provoked.
Despite their fearsome reputation, primarily due to their ability to sting multiple times and their vivid colors, wasps are indispensable pollinators and natural pest controllers. Their presence helps maintain healthy ecosystems, making them far more beneficial than they might seem at first glance.
Bees and Wasps
In our complete guide to recognizing bees easily, we highlight that bees and wasps are frequent visitors in gardens. Though wasps can be beneficial, their image is often tarnished by a handful of problematic species among the myriad you might encounter.
Bees typically keep to themselves and only become defensive if crushed or provoked. They risk their lives when they sting, as it often results in their death, so they save this defense for what they perceive as major threats to their colony.
Spotting the difference between these two insects isn’t too tricky. Although bees and wasps both fall under the Apocrita suborder—which also includes ants—they show distinct differences upon closer inspection.
One quick tip to differentiate them is to check for fur. A furry insect is probably a bee, with the fluffy bumblebee being the most docile of the lot.
In contrast, wasps lack hair and exhibit more vivid coloring with sharp yellow and black stripes that are typical of the more troublesome varieties. They have narrow waists and are more likely to crash your outdoor meal than any bee would.
Hornets and Wasps
Did you know all hornets are actually a type of wasp, although the reverse isn’t true? This often comes as a surprise since many of us use the terms “hornet” and “wasp” interchangeably. However, there’s a clear difference to be aware of.
Interestingly, according to Almanac.com, there aren’t any hornet species native to the United States. The European hornet is the only true hornet found here, first introduced in New York back in 1840.
Let’s break down the differences between hornets and wasps:
Hornets
- Size: They measure between 1 to 1.5 inches.
- Nests: Hornets build large, globular nests that are aerial or in protected elevated locations, and can house between 100-700 workers.
- Color: Typically black and white or a reddish-brown.
- Diet: Hornets mainly prey on other insects and seldom scavenge for sweets and proteins.
- Temperament: Extremely aggressive when their nests are disturbed, with many individuals ready to sting.
Wasps
- Size: Generally smaller than hornets, with most being 1 inch or less.
- Nests: Wasps build both aerial paper nests and ground nests. Yellow jackets, a type of wasp, are known for building nests both above and underground, though primarily underground. Paper wasps, on the other hand, have nests without a protective paper envelope, and their colonies can range from 100-5000 workers.
- Color: Wasps display a wider variety of colors.
- Diet: Like hornets, they prey on other insects but are more prone to scavenge for sweets and proteins.
- Temperament: Yellow jackets are notably aggressive. Paper wasps, however, are less likely to sting unless they feel threatened.
Debunking Wasp Myths: What You Need to Know
Let’s clear up some common myths about wasps that you might have heard floating around your garden. Misunderstandings about these creatures can lead to unnecessary fear or, worse, risky situations.
- Myth #1: Wasps are useless.
Think again! Wasps play a crucial role in controlling pest populations. Without them, your garden could be overrun by caterpillars and aphids that damage plants like tomatoes.
Beyond their bad reputation, many wasps are natural predators that help maintain a balanced ecosystem. And yes, some even manage pest control within their own species, with parasitoid wasps targeting other wasp larvae.
- Myth #2: Wasps don’t help with pollination.
Contrary to popular belief, many wasp species are quite effective pollinators. As they feast on nectar, they inadvertently transfer pollen, aiding the reproduction of numerous plants. While bees often steal the spotlight in pollination, wasps are unsung heroes helping keep your garden blooming.
- Myth #3: All wasps are aggressive.
Most wasps won’t bother you unless provoked. In fact, many species are surprisingly peaceful and will ignore human activity unless their nest is disturbed. Even the notorious yellowjackets are more interested in your picnic than in causing trouble—unless you try to swat them away!
- Myth #4: Baking soda cures wasp stings.
This old wives’ tale is based on the incorrect assumption that wasp venom is acidic and that baking soda, an alkaline substance, can neutralize it. In reality, wasp venom is complex, and there’s no scientific evidence supporting baking soda as an effective treatment for stings.
- Myth #5: All wasps sting.
Not all wasps can sting. Male wasps lack stingers, which are actually modified egg-laying organs found only in females. Furthermore, not all female wasps are quick to use their stingers unless they’re hunting or defending their nests.
How to Identify a Wasp
Ever wondered how to tell a wasp from a bee? It’s pretty simple once you know what to look for. Wasps sport long, slender bodies and aren’t as hairy as bees. You might see them in various colors, from solid black or yellow to striped patterns of yellow-orange and black.
When they’re buzzing around, wasps let their legs dangle mid-flight, unlike bees whose legs stay tucked in.
Unlike the fuzzy, more rounded bees that feed on nectar and pollen, wasps have a glossier, tougher exterior. They’re the hunters of the insect world, preying on other bugs and spiders. And yes, they can be pretty feisty even without provocation.
While bees construct their homes from wax, wasps prefer to craft theirs with a mix of saliva and chewed-up wood fibers, forming layered, rounded combs.
It’s essential to distinguish between wasps and bees, especially with bees often getting a bad rap in the media. Reports highlight bee stings and attacks, overshadowing their ecological benefits and sometimes sparking undue fear.
However, bees generally sting only when threatened. Wasps, on the other hand, can be more aggressive. Commonly mistaken for bees, species like yellow jackets and paper wasps are known for their smooth stingers that allow them to sting repeatedly. These critters build their nests in various hidden spots, from underground to under eaves.
Exploring the World of Wasps: Solitary vs. Social
Ever wondered about the different types of wasps buzzing around? Well, wasps fall into two main categories: solitary and social, and each group has its own unique lifestyle.
Solitary Wasps: The Lone Rangers
Solitary wasps are the most common yet lesser-known type. They prefer the quiet life, building their nests underground where they’re rarely seen or bothered. Unlike their social cousins, solitary wasps aren’t aggressive and seldom sting unless provoked, as they don’t need to defend a colony.
These wasps are incredibly diverse, with many species looking nothing like the typical wasp. They’re mostly predators, each specializing in different prey, and they generally mind their own business.
In the U.S., some of the major types of solitary wasps include:
- Thread-waisted Wasps (Family Sphecidae): This group includes the mud dauber and sand wasps.
- Cuckoo Wasps (Subfamily Chrysidinae): These wasps are stunning with a shiny blackish-green hue and are named for their habit of laying eggs in the nests of other wasps, much like the cuckoo bird.
- Potter Wasps (Subfamily Eumeninae): Known for crafting tiny mud nests.
- Tiphiid and Scoliid Wasps (Families Tiphiidae and Scoliidae): These parasitic wasps lay their eggs in insect larvae.
- Velvet Ants (Family Mutillidae): Despite their name, these fuzzy creatures are wasps with a notoriously painful sting, though they are not aggressive.
Social Wasps: The Community Builders
On the flip side, social wasps live in colonies, where they work together to build and maintain their nests. These nests can range from a few dozen to thousands of wasps.
Defined by their overlapping generations, cooperative brood care, and a division of reproductive roles, social wasps are what most people picture—often bright yellow and black.
In North America, social wasps mainly belong to the family Vespidae. Key subfamilies include:
- Vespinae: These are your picnic crashers and include real nuisances like the true hornets and yellowjackets.
- Polistinae: Commonly referred to as paper wasaps, these creatures also use wood pulp for their nests, though they’re not the only ones.
What Are the Most Common Types of Wasps?
Did you know there are more than 10,000 types of wasps worldwide? Among these, paper wasps and yellow jackets are pretty common, though they often get mixed up. While many wasps might look alike, their behaviors, including their levels of aggression, can vary significantly.
A few wasps are pollinators, but most are nature’s pest controllers. They hunt down insects and other invertebrates either to feed their young or to use as a living nursery for their eggs.
When the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the host, eventually emerging as new wasps. This natural process helps keep the ecosystem balanced by controlling pest populations.
Yellowjacket (Vespula, Dolichovespula)
If you’ve ever imagined a wasp, chances are you’re picturing a yellowjacket. These critters are part of the Vespula and Dolichovespula genera and are found across various species in North America. During the warmer months of summer and fall, they’re especially prevalent.
Marked by their distinctive black and yellow stripes on the abdomen, yellowjackets are known for their aggressive nature, though they are slightly less hasty to sting compared to other wasps. Nevertheless, if provoked, they won’t hesitate to sting multiple times.
Their nests are crafted from a paper-like material composed of chewed cellulose, often tucked away in the ground, tree hollows, under eaves, or even within wall voids.
They thrive on a diet of insects and sweet substances, such as nectar and fruits, making them a nuisance yet beneficial for controlling garden pests. Adults grow to about half an inch and feature a sleek yellow and black or white and black pattern.
- Physical description: They boast yellow markings on their head front and yellow bands around their abdomen, coupled with large antennae and dark eyes.
- Region: These wasps are a global presence but are notably abundant in the southeastern United States.
- Habitat and nests: Their nests are multi-layered, made from material that the queen sources and processes into a paper-like form. These nests can be underground or associated with buildings.
- Behavior: Yellowjackets are common visitors at outdoor activities, feeding on insects, bees, and fruits—yes, even your picnic treats. They live in large colonies and will defend their home fiercely if threatened.
Despite their similarities to honey bees, yellowjackets are nearly hairless with narrower wings and distinct black and yellow coloring. The queens are easily recognizable by their unique patterns of spots and triangles, and although they only grow to about three-quarters of an inch, their size allows them to sneak into buildings easily.
Yellowjacket larvae feast on insects, but once they mature, they develop a penchant for carbohydrates and proteins, making them uninvited guests at many outdoor gatherings.
European Hornet (Vespa crabro)
The European hornet, not native to North America, has established itself across the United States. Recognizable by their larger size, about an inch long, and smooth bodies with black and yellow stripes, these hornets are often mistaken for yellowjackets.
However, they prefer secluded nesting spots underground and are active both day and night. Generally, they are not aggressive unless their nests are disturbed.
Commonly known as the giant hornet, they are mostly brown with yellow stripes and a pale face. Their nests are typically found in natural cavities like old tree stumps or within building voids, covered with a brown, wood-pulp envelope.
European hornets are formidable predators, hunting large insects such as grasshoppers and even other wasps. They also consume tree sap, fruits, and honeydew. While they do have a painful sting, their venom isn’t particularly potent, and they usually won’t bother you unless you pose a threat to their nest.
Northern Paper Wasp (Polistes fuscatus)
The northern paper wasp is often seen around gardens in North America, particularly in the Midwest. This wasp is identifiable by its slender, reddish-brown body adorned with yellow bands and its dark wings, growing to just under an inch.
Northern paper wasps are less of a nuisance as they tend to keep smaller colonies and focus on constructing their nests from regurgitated pulp, which they scrape from wooden surfaces like frames and furniture.
- Physical description: A slim, reddish-brown body with variable yellow banding, depending on the habitat.
- Region: Predominantly found in the temperate regions of North America, especially the Midwest.
- Habitat and nests: They favor wooded areas where they can gather materials for their nests, which they attach to various structures like homes and fences using a chewed pulp they produce.
- Behavior: Highly social, these wasps rely on their colony for survival and are known for their unique ability to recognize fellow colony members and intruders. They will defend their nests vigorously if they feel threatened.
European Paper Wasp (Polistes dominula)
The European paper wasp, an invasive species in the U.S., resembles a yellowjacket but is generally less bothersome to humans. Unlike yellowjackets, they aren’t likely to disrupt your outdoor activities, such as picnics or barbecues. Instead, they prefer to gnaw on wooden structures like garden furniture.
One easy way to distinguish them in flight is by noticing how they let their legs dangle loosely behind them, as opposed to yellowjackets that keep their legs tucked in. These wasps are about ¾ inch long, marked by a black and yellow pattern and a distinct narrow waist.
Originating from Europe, they were first spotted in North America in Boston during the 1970s and have since spread across the northern U.S. and into British Columbia. Their nests, made from chewed wood pulp, feature the characteristic hexagonal cells typical of paper wasp nests.
While not overly aggressive, the European paper wasp can sting if provoked and serves as a natural predator in gardens, helping to control pest populations.
Red Paper Wasp (Polistes carolina, rubiginosus, canadensis, etc.)
The red paper wasp stands out in the Polistes genus with its unique reddish-brown color and black wings, lacking the common yellow markings of its relatives. These wasps are more prevalent in the Eastern and Midwest U.S., with Polistes canadensis found in a limited area in Arizona.
They tend to build large nests and can become more aggressive than their yellow-and-black counterparts, delivering painful stings. However, if their nests are not located within human-used spaces, they generally do not pose a significant threat unless disturbed.
Bald-Faced Hornet (Dolichovespula maculata)
Despite its name, the bald-faced hornet is technically a type of wasp, distinguishable by its striking black and white markings. Preferring to build their substantial, papery nests high up in trees, these hornets are relatively calm unless their space is invaded.
Found throughout the United States, particularly in the Southeast, they are most active in the late summer. Although similar in shape to yellowjackets, bald-faced hornets are known for their more aggressive nature and their ability to sting repeatedly, thanks to their smooth stingers.
Their defensive behavior makes them formidable protectors of their nests, which can be located on various elevated surfaces ranging from tree branches to building eaves.
Mud Dauber Wasp
Mud daubers, a common name for several wasp species in the Sphecidae and Crabronidae families, are easy to spot with their distinctive long, narrow waists and metallic hues of black or blue. These solitary creatures craft their homes from mud, creating structures that can resemble organ pipes or simple dirt piles, depending on the species.
Found across the United States, they prefer to build in shaded spots like under eaves or inside sheds. While they do defend their nests, mud daubers are generally not aggressive and rarely sting unless provoked.
Interestingly, these wasps play a beneficial role by keeping spider populations in check. If mud daubers nest too close for comfort, it’s safest to have a professional remove the nests to avoid any risks.
Velvet Ant
Imagine a wasp up to ⅞ inch long, sporting a vivid pattern of black, bright red, orange, yellow, or white. The females, distinctively wingless, are often spotted on the ground during the warm summer months, while the winged males prefer lounging on flowers.
Don’t let the name fool you—velvet ants are actually wingless female wasps that bear a striking resemblance to bumblebees. These insects, particularly the notorious Dasymutilla occidentalis, known as the cow killer, are found in the Eastern US and are infamous for their painful sting. However, they’re not highly venomous.
Despite their fearsome name suggesting a lethal sting, they’re actually not very aggressive and pose no real threat to cattle.
Velvet ants are parasitic, laying their eggs in other wasp nests where their young will devour the host larvae. While encounters with humans are rare, it’s best to admire these colorful creatures from a distance.
Sand Wasp
Sand wasps, belonging to the genus Bembix, number over a thousand species in the US alone, though they tend to fly under the radar due to their solitary nature. These wasps are distinguished by their large eyes and the common wasp-like pattern of yellowish-white and black stripes.
They build their nests in sandy soils and are generally non-aggressive. Sand wasps will sting only if mishandled or threatened, so if you spot one in your garden, it’s best to let it be; it’s likely just passing through.
Cuckoo wasp
Imagine a wasp so striking it could win a beauty contest! Enter the cuckoo wasp, a dazzling insect known for its jewel-toned, iridescent body. These wasps are not just about looks; they share a name and a behavior with the cuckoo bird, laying their eggs in the nests of other solitary wasps and bees.
Once their larvae hatch, they consume the existing larvae and available food. These wasps are mostly harmless to humans, as they generally can’t sting and help control other wasp populations that can.
Found in dry, open areas, especially from May to August, they are active foragers on flower nectar while they search for host nests. If threatened, cuckoo wasps will curl up, a unique defense mechanism. Despite their global presence, they are particularly common in places like California.
Potter wasp
On to the potter wasp, named for their unique mud nests that resemble tiny pots—think miniature jugs with a delicate neck and a rounded base. While they might look fierce with their typical wasp-like appearance, they are quite small and generally avoid stinging.
These wasps perform a vital role in controlling caterpillar populations by capturing and feeding them to their young, making them natural garden allies. Potter wasps are found across the northern hemisphere, preferring woodlands or urban settings.
Unlike their social relatives, these solitary wasps construct individual mud nests on tree branches. While they can sting, they rarely do unless provoked, focusing instead on their foraging and nest-building.
Mason wasp
Lastly, let’s talk about the mason wasp, another mud nest aficionado within the Eumeninae subfamily. The most notable species in North America is the four-toothed mason wasp, which resembles the bald-faced hornet and is prevalent in the Eastern states.
These wasps can sting but are generally not aggressive, focusing instead on their architectural endeavors in creating mud-based homes. Like the potter wasp, mason wasps are solitary creatures and an asset in controlling pests around your home.
Digger Wasp (Genus Sphex)
The digger wasp is a lone operator, preferring to build its underground home on its own. In the U.S., you might spot several types of these wasps, like the great black wasp (Sphex pensylvanicus) and the striking great golden digger wasp (Sphex ichneumoneus), which features a black and orange color scheme.
The great black wasp, notable for its large, jet-black body that exceeds an inch in length, rarely stings, but when it does, it packs a punch. These wasps are incredibly beneficial as they help control pest populations.
Gall Wasp (Family Cynipidae)
North America is home to around 800 species of gall wasps, though they’re seldom seen due to their tiny size, maxing out at about 0.3 inch. More apparent than the wasps themselves are the galls they induce on plants, which look like warts and serve as both nursery and food source for their larvae.
Seeing a few galls on your plants usually isn’t a cause for concern, as gall wasps typically don’t cause significant damage unless the infestation is severe.
Spider Wasp (Subfamily Pompilidae)
For those who aren’t fans of spiders, the spider wasp might seem like a hero, specializing in hunting these eight-legged creatures. However, the process is quite grim: the captured spider is paralyzed, dragged to the wasp’s nest, and used as a living food source for the hatching larvae.
Among these, the tarantula hawk (genus Pepsis) is notorious, known for its excruciating sting and diet of tarantulas. Predominantly found as far north as Utah, tarantula hawks are less common in other parts of the country.
These wasps exhibit fascinating behaviors, with males primarily feeding on nectar and awaiting a chance to mate, while females actively hunt tarantulas. Other spider wasps, which are less intimidating, can be recognized by their dark coloration and jittery wing movements.
They build their nests from repurposed mud pots, previously used by mud daubers, and exhibit a unique hunting strategy by targeting jumping spiders and sometimes mutilating them before transport back to their nests. Due to their painful sting, it’s wise to give these garden dwellers plenty of space.
Ichneumon Wasp (Ichneumonidae)
Often likened to spider wasps, Ichneumon wasps, or Darwin wasps as they’re sometimes called, are fascinating parasitoids. What sets them apart is their lengthy ovipositor, used expertly to pierce through tree bark and deposit eggs into moth or beetle larvae.
Once hatched, the wasp larvae consume their hosts—sure, it’s a bit yucky, but this process is crucial for keeping insect numbers in check! Though they might seem menacing with what looks like a formidable stinger, most Ichneumon wasps can’t sting at all, and those that can aren’t really a threat to us.
Scoliid Wasp (Scoliidae)
Let’s talk about another group of beneficial parasitoids—the Scoliid wasps. These mostly black wasps, adorned with red and yellow patterns, adopt a strategy similar to that of spider wasps by dragging paralyzed prey back to their nests for their young.
They mainly target larvae of invasive pests like the Japanese beetle, making them garden heroes. And don’t worry about stings—unless you disturb them, they’re generally peaceful.
Tiphiid Wasps (Tiphiidae)
Commonly known as flower wasps due to the adults’ diet, Tiphiid wasps are akin to Scoliid wasps in their pest control capabilities. While not many are native to the US, some species have been introduced specifically to tackle pests like Japanese beetles.
Sporting yellow and black stripes, these wasps are particularly noted for their elongated abdomens compared to others, like the Eastern US’s five-banded Tiphiid wasp, Myzinum quinquecinctum.
Cicada Killer Wasp (Genus Sphecius)
Cicada killer wasps lead solitary lives but may group their burrows closely in dry soil or flower beds with little vegetation. These large wasps, showcasing patterns in black, yellow, red, or brown, primarily hunt cicadas to feed their larvae.
Despite their intimidating size—up to 2 inches—they rarely sting humans and are generally harmless unless provoked. However, their burrowing can cause dead patches in lawns, which might be a concern if they’re plentiful in your yard.
Found across various regions in the US, these giants are both a spectacle and a natural method for reducing cicada populations that might otherwise dominate your garden soundscape.
Blue-winged Wasp
Meet the blue-winged wasp, a striking insect boasting metallic blue wings paired with a black upper body and a reddish-brown abdomen, highlighted by two yellow spots. You might spot these wasps from New England all the way to Florida, and as far west as the Rocky Mountains.
They’re commonly found flying just above the ground, hunting for beetle grubs. Their underground nests are quite intricate, featuring multiple chambers off the main entrance, much like ant colonies.
Although they are on the larger side for wasps, they’re generally harmless unless provoked. Females are equipped with a stinger and will defend themselves if threatened, while males, lacking stingers, might swarm as a means of attack.
Thread Waisted Wasp
This wasp is easily recognized by its elongated body that narrows dramatically, giving it a “thread-waisted” appearance. They come in various colors, including all black, black and red, yellow and black, or white and black, with distinctive abdominal markings.
Widely distributed, these wasps are found from southern Canada down to Guatemala. As solitary nesters, they construct their homes either in the ground or from mud in the air.
Adults feast on nectar, honeydew, and the fluids of their prey. Known for their parasitic behavior, they paralyze their prey by crushing its neck, then store the incapacitated insect in a mud cell where they lay their eggs. The emerging larvae will devour the host insect.
Asian Giant Hornet
Also known as the “murder hornet,” the Asian giant hornet has stirred up quite a bit of concern since it was first detected in Washington state in 2019. This formidable predator, native to regions like Japan and Korea, is the largest hornet globally, reaching up to two inches in length.
It has a distinctive look with a yellow/orange head, a black thorax, and a striped yellow/orange and black abdomen. These hornets usually build their nests underground, taking over tunnels dug by other animals.
Their aggressive nature extends to their hunting techniques, where they decapitate bees and haul away their thoraxes to feed their young. Their potent stinger can penetrate beekeeping suits, and their venom is excruciatingly painful.
Although their presence poses a threat to honeybees and could potentially impact agriculture and nutrition, it seems they haven’t established a strong presence in the U.S. as of 2022. Many sightings have turned out to be cicada killer wasps, much to the relief of entomologists.
German Yellow Jacket
This striking black and yellow wasp measures about half an inch and features a unique spade-shaped mark on its abdomen. Originally from Europe, it has since spread to various parts of the Northeastern U.S., Canada, the Pacific coast, and even as far as Chile, Argentina, New Zealand, and Australia.
The solitary queens endure the winter and establish new colonies in structural cavities come spring, creating nests from chewed wood fibers and saliva. These nests can swell to over 4,000 members by midsummer. Known for their defensive nature, German yellow jackets will zealously guard their homes, chasing away intruders at impressive distances.
Southern Yellow Jacket
These half-inch workers are adorned with yellow and black stripes and are prevalent from Texas to Central America. Southern yellow jackets craft their nests from chewed wood fiber, resulting in papery abodes commonly located underground, in tree holes, or wall voids.
Often encountered around garbage bins, picnic areas, and gardens, they are notoriously aggressive and will sting repeatedly if threatened—most incidents occur when their ground-level nests are accidentally disturbed.
Braconid Wasp
Tiny but mighty, Braconid wasps are less than half an inch long, featuring narrow waists and ant-like heads. Although they appear black, a closer look reveals an orange or reddish abdomen.
These wasps are global residents, thriving wherever moths and butterflies are found. They prefer the tiny florets of herbs for nesting. Crucial for organic pest control, Braconid wasps lay their eggs on soft-bodied caterpillars, helping to keep garden pests in check without resorting to stinging.
Guinea Paper Wasp
These wasps are quite the sight at up to an inch long, sporting slim, hourglass figures. They flaunt wings of a deep brown or black hue, matched with striking yellow and brown-orange stripes. Predominantly found across the southern U.S. and northern Mexico, they’ve also popped up as far north as Missouri, Maryland, and New Jersey.
Guinea Paper Wasps are master architects, crafting downward-oriented, hexagonal nests from chewed-up wood fibers, often supported by a single thread. Like bees, they have a structured social order with workers, queens, and males, where the queens handle all the egg-laying. They’re peaceful unless provoked, so they’ll only sting if they feel threatened.
Horntail Wasp
These chunky wasps can stretch up to 1.5 inches and are easily recognized by their robust waists. They come in shades of blue, black, or reddish-brown adorned with red, ivory, or yellow patches.
Horntail Wasps make their home in both Europe and North America, preferring the quiet life inside newly dead or dying trees—thankfully, they’re not a threat to your home’s structure. Despite their fearsome appearance, they’re gentle giants, and the females use one of their dual stingers to embed eggs deep into tree trunks, securing a safe future for their larvae.
Mammoth Wasp
As the giant of the wasp world in Europe, the Mammoth Wasp can grow up to a formidable 1.75 inches. Females feature a yellow face with short antennae, while males boast a black face with longer antennae. These loners frequent the Mediterranean, hanging around decaying wood and tree stumps.
They hunt beetles, paralyze them with a sting, and then lay an egg on the beetle’s skin. Despite their daunting size, Mammoth Wasps aren’t interested in bothering humans and pose no threat.
The Most Painful Wasp Stings
Wondering which wasps pack the most excruciating sting? Look no further than the Schmidt Sting Pain Index, created by the adventurous entomologist Justin O. Schmidt, also dubbed the “King of Sting.” This brave soul has endured the sting of 83 different insects to rate their pain level. Imagine that!
Most wasp stings are definitely unpleasant but generally manageable. For example, a sting from a yellowjacket is about a 2 on a scale of 4. More intense are the stings from red paper wasps and velvet ants, scoring a solid 3.
However, the pain scale hits the roof with a rating of 4 for these notorious stingers:
- Pepsis grossa, or the tarantula hawk wasp, known for hunting spiders, even tarantulas. Found in the southern US and Central America, Schmidt vividly describes its sting as “Blinding, fierce, shockingly electric. Like dropping a running hair dryer into your bubble bath.”
- Synoeca septentrionalis, or the warrior wasp, primarily found in tropical areas no further north than Mexico. Schmidt’s dramatic take on its sting? “Torture. It’s like being chained in the flow of an erupting volcano. Why did I start this list?”
Interestingly, YouTube’s wildlife educator Coyote Peterson disagrees, claiming the sting of the aptly named executioner wasp (Polistes carnifex), occasionally spotted in Texas, as the top contender for the most painful sting.
Wasp Prevention and Removal
Late summer brings yellowjackets and other nuisance wasps, drawn to the sweet scents of fruit trees and irresistible treats like sandwiches and hamburgers.
To keep these pesky visitors at bay, clear away any fallen or rotting fruit and secure your trash in tightly sealed bins. Cover up picnic foods once everyone has been served to avoid attracting wasps, and try to stay calm if one buzzes close—panicking can make things worse.
If a wasp becomes a real bother at your outdoor event, you can swiftly eliminate it with an electric fly swatter. A single, well-timed swing usually does the trick. Alternatively, if you’re not keen on killing the wasp, you can trap it under a glass and release it later.
However, it’s important to see wasps not just as pests but as vital parts of our ecosystem. They help control other pests and are a sign of a healthy environment.
Before you consider removing a wasp nest, remember that most nests won’t survive the winter or rainy seasons—nature often takes care of the problem for you. If a nest isn’t causing any immediate danger, it’s best to leave it undisturbed as a respect for nature’s balance.
The decision to remove a wasp nest depends on various factors, such as the wasp species and the time of year. For instance, removing a dormant paper wasp nest in winter might be safe, but it’s wise to avoid disturbing a nest if it’s out of the way and the wasps aren’t causing any harm.
On the other hand, if you encounter a large, active yellowjacket nest in a high-risk area, like near where children play, it’s safer to call a professional.
Remember, wasps are territorial and can become aggressive if their nest is threatened. If a nest is located in a busy area, removing it might be necessary to prevent stings.
When dealing with wasp nests, always wear protective clothing, choose a time when wasps are less active, and use appropriate treatments like aerosol sprays for exposed nests or insecticide dust for underground nests. For those allergic to stings, it’s best to leave nest removal to the experts.
Explorer 12 Natural Ways to Repel Wasps (Without Harming Them)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many wasp species exist?
A: There are over 30,000 known wasp species scattered around the globe. These wasps vary widely in terms of color, size, habitat, and the way they build their nests.
Q: Do wasps bite or sting?
A: Wasps are equipped with stingers, and most species can sting multiple times if they feel threatened. They also have mandibles which they use to chew wood fibers for building nests and to capture prey.
Q: How long do wasps live?
A: The lifespan of a wasp depends on its species and sex. Typically, female workers and male drones live a few weeks to several months, while queens can live up to a year, depending on the species.
Q: Do wasps die after they sting?
A: Unlike honey bees, most wasps don’t die after stinging. Honey bees are the exception, as their stingers get stuck, leading to their death.
Q: How should you treat a wasp sting?
A: For a wasp sting, wash the area with soap and water and apply an ice pack to reduce swelling and soothe the pain. These simple steps usually help, and you should feel better soon.
However, if you’re highly allergic to wasp stings, always have an Epi-Pen handy. In cases of severe reactions like anaphylaxis—signaled by hives, breathing difficulties, or faintness—immediately call 911.
Related posts:
- Unraveling the Mystery of Frothy “Frog Spit” on Plants
- A Gardener’s Guide to Controlling Earwig Populations
- Crane Flies Explained: Not the Pests You Think They Are
