Paper Wasps
Paper wasps are an incredibly common stinging insect in the Pacific Northwest. Paper wasps get their name based on the appearance of their nests. Worker wasps combine fibrous plant material with their saliva to produce a papier-mâché-like substance that is used to fashion the home.
Their nest is one of the best ways to identify them, as the shape is somewhat different from other wasp nests. The paper wasp’s nest is usually held to a dry elevated area by a stem of nest material, and the rest of the chambers/cells hang down in the shape of a common soup bowl. This combination of the half circle with the stem gives the nest the appearance of an upside down umbrella, hence the nickname umbrella wasp. If a nest is discovered, it is very easy to identify as a paper wasp’s given its unique umbrella shape.
Stings from paper wasps are extremely painful and may produce serious reactions to people who are allergic to the venom. Removing a paper wasp nest may be dangerous. We highly recommend that a pest control professional be contacted to assist in treatment of paper wasp infestations. If you or a family member are stung by a paper wasp, treat it as you would any other bee sting. Seek medical attention immediately if you are showing signs of being allergic.
Paper Wasps Facts:
- On average, paper wasps in the Pacific Northwest measure one-half to slightly more than one-inch in length.
- Paper wasps have yellow markings on their heads and thorax (mid-section), and yellow rings on their abdomens. Their wings are brownish and slightly transparent in appearance.
- Adults mostly feed on nectar, but prey on small insects, spiders, and grubs to feed their young. They can also be attracted to other types of protein such as BBQ food (hotdogs, hamburgers).
- Their umbrella shaped nests are often found hanging under protective overhangs around doors and under roof eaves.
- Unlike honey bees, they are able to sting multiple times. In addition, they also release a pheromone which will alert other wasps to attack as well.
How Altus Pest Control Can Get Rid of Paper Wasps
To properly treat for a wasp infestation, you must know what type of wasps you are treating for. At Altus Pest Control, our trained staff will identify the species of wasp invading your home and apply the appropriate pest control treatment to solve your problem quickly. Our technicians are trained to remove any visible wasp nests from the eaves of customers homes on each service.