Paper Wasps in Tennessee: Identification Guide
Quick Facts About Paper Wasps
Paper wasps are among the most common stinging insects found throughout Tennessee. Known for their distinctive umbrella-shaped nests with exposed cells, these insects are less aggressive than many other wasp species but will defend their colonies when threatened.- Size: 3/4 to 1 inch in length
- Color: Brownish-black with yellow to red markings on head and abdomen
- Shape: Slender body with long legs and narrow waist
- Active Season: Spring through fall, with peak activity in summer
- Lifespan: Workers live several months; fertilized queens overwinter
- Reproduction Rate: Colonies typically contain 20-75 wasps by mid-summer
What Do Paper Wasps Look Like?
Paper wasps have a slender, elongated body with distinctive yellow to reddish markings on their predominantly brownish-black bodies. Their legs hang down noticeably when in flight, giving them a characteristic appearance. Unlike yellow jackets or hornets that build enclosed nests, paper wasps construct open-celled, umbrella-shaped nests with visible hexagonal cells where they raise their young.
Key Identifying Features
- Open-Celled Nests: Their distinctive paper nests resemble upside-down umbrellas with exposed hexagonal cells and a narrow stalk attachment.
- Hanging Legs: When flying, their legs hang down visibly, distinguishing them from other wasp species.
- Color Pattern: Brownish-black bodies with yellow or reddish markings that vary by species.
- Less Aggressive Behavior: Though capable of stinging multiple times, they’re typically less aggressive than yellow jackets or hornets unless their nest is directly threatened.
Related Species
Paper wasps are sometimes confused with yellow jackets, though yellow jackets are shorter, more robust, and build enclosed nests often underground or in wall voids. European hornets are much larger than paper wasps and primarily brown with yellow markings. Mud dauber wasps build tubular mud nests rather than paper nests and are even less aggressive than paper wasps.
Health & Property Risks
Health Concerns
Paper wasps pose several health considerations when nesting near homes.
- Painful Stings: Their stings cause localized pain, redness, and swelling that typically subsides within 24 hours.
- Multiple Stings: They can sting repeatedly when defending their nest, potentially leading to more severe reactions.
- Allergic Reactions: For sensitive individuals, stings can trigger severe allergic responses including anaphylaxis, requiring immediate medical attention.
Property Damage
Their nesting habits impact properties in several ways.
- Nest Accumulation: Multiple nests can form around a property, particularly under eaves, decks, and porch ceilings.
- Staining: Wasps can leave dark marks on siding or eaves beneath nest locations.
- Activity Limitation: Their presence near doorways or outdoor living spaces can limit comfortable use of these areas.
Where to Look for Paper Wasps Around Your Home
Paper wasps typically build nests in sheltered locations around the perimeter of homes and outbuildings. Common nesting sites include under eaves, deck joists, porch ceilings, window frames, door frames, attic rafters, inside chimneys, and in tree branches or shrubs. They’re often spotted around food sources including flowering plants, overripe fruit, open garbage, outdoor dining areas, and hummingbird feeders.
When to Call Professional Help
Professional pest control is recommended when you identify paper wasp nests located near entryways, outdoor living spaces, or children’s play areas. If multiple nests are present on your property, if anyone in your household has a stinging insect allergy, or if you’ve observed increased wasp activity despite DIY prevention efforts, expert intervention provides safer and more comprehensive control than self-treatment attempts.Schedule a Free Inspection
Our expert technicians at U.S. Pest Protection specialize in safely identifying and eliminating paper wasp colonies throughout Tennessee. Using environmentally friendly treatments, we can remove existing nests and implement preventative measures to discourage future nesting activity. Our certified technicians respond within 24 hours to help you reclaim your outdoor spaces from these stinging insects.
