European Paper Wasp
Polistes dominula
Appears: Queens appear in the spring and nests grow
Beneficial: Throughout the summer, with a final batch of males called drones produced in the fall. These drones mate with new queens, and it is only the queens that survive the winter. Because European paper wasps are aware of threats to their nests, it is wise to limit any attempt of a nest being built. The first website listed below gives great advice for nest management. Pay particular attention to the differences discussed in the second website regarding the placement of the European paper wasp’s nests verses that of our native paper wasp.
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Size: 13 - 25 mm long