Wasps are a diverse group of insects with thousands of species worldwide, and several of the most common species can be found throughout North America. Understanding the characteristics of these common species can help homeowners identify wasp infestations and determine the best course of action for control. While many wasps are beneficial to the ecosystem, some species are more aggressive and pose a greater risk to humans and pets. Here, we will cover some of the most frequently encountered wasps in North American homes and gardens.
Yellow Jackets (Vespula spp. and Dolichovespula spp.) #
Yellow jackets are among the most notorious and aggressive wasp species in North America. Their distinctive yellow and black striped bodies make them easy to identify, though they are often confused with bees. Yellow jackets are social wasps that live in large colonies, which can contain up to several thousand individuals.
- Habitat: Yellow jackets typically build their nests in the ground, but they can also be found in wall cavities, attics, or other enclosed spaces. These nests are made from wood fibers that the wasps chew into a paper-like substance.
- Behavior: Yellow jackets are highly aggressive, especially when their nest is disturbed. They are more likely to sting than other wasp species and can sting multiple times. They are also scavengers, attracted to sugary foods and meats, which is why they are commonly seen at picnics, barbecues, and garbage bins.
- Risks: Yellow jacket stings are painful and can cause significant swelling. They pose a serious risk to people who are allergic to wasp venom, as they are capable of stinging multiple times, sometimes in large numbers.
Hornets (Vespa spp. and Dolichovespula maculata) #
Hornets are a subset of wasps known for their larger size and more aggressive behavior compared to other wasp species. In North America, the most common hornet is the bald-faced hornet (Dolichovespula maculata), which has a distinctive black-and-white pattern.
- Habitat: Hornets build large, rounded nests that are usually suspended from trees, shrubs, or building eaves. These nests are made from a paper-like material created by the hornets chewing wood fibers. Nests can grow quite large, housing hundreds of hornets.
- Behavior: Like yellow jackets, hornets are social and will defend their nests aggressively if threatened. Hornets are more likely to sting when their nest is disturbed, and their stings are more painful than those of smaller wasps due to the larger amount of venom injected.
- Risks: Hornet stings are not only painful but can be dangerous for those allergic to venom. Additionally, hornets can become aggressive if they feel their food sources (such as fallen fruit or sugary drinks) are threatened.
Paper Wasps (Polistes spp.) #
Paper wasps are less aggressive than yellow jackets and hornets, but they are still capable of stinging if provoked. These wasps are slender with long legs and are typically reddish-brown, yellow, or black in color. They are named for the paper-like nests they build from chewed wood and plant fibers.
- Habitat: Paper wasps tend to build their umbrella-shaped nests in sheltered areas, such as under eaves, railings, porch ceilings, or tree branches. Their nests are open and usually contain fewer than 100 individuals.
- Behavior: Paper wasps are not as aggressive as yellow jackets or hornets and will generally only sting if their nest is directly threatened. They are beneficial to gardens as they prey on caterpillars and other insect pests.
- Risks: While less aggressive, paper wasps can still sting if provoked. Their stings are painful, though not as dangerous as those from yellow jackets or hornets unless the individual is allergic to wasp venom.
Mud Daubers (Sceliphron spp. and Chalybion spp.) #
Mud daubers are solitary wasps that are much less aggressive than social wasps like yellow jackets and hornets. These wasps are known for their unique nests, which are made of mud and often found on walls, under eaves, or in other sheltered areas.
- Habitat: Mud daubers build cylindrical or pipe-shaped nests out of mud. These nests are usually located in sheltered areas such as the sides of buildings, attics, or garages.
- Behavior: Mud daubers are solitary and do not defend their nests aggressively like social wasps. They rarely sting and are more focused on capturing and paralyzing spiders, which they place in their nests as food for their larvae.
- Risks: Mud daubers are generally not a threat to humans. Their stings are rare and usually only occur when handled or trapped.
Cicada Killers (Sphecius speciosus) #
Cicada killers are large, solitary wasps that get their name from their habit of preying on cicadas. They are among the largest wasps in North America, with females growing up to two inches in length. Despite their intimidating size, cicada killers are not aggressive toward humans.
- Habitat: Cicada killers burrow into the ground, creating small mounds of soil near their entrances. They prefer sandy or loose soil, often in gardens, lawns, or along sidewalks.
- Behavior: Cicada killers are solitary and do not defend their nests aggressively. Females capture and paralyze cicadas to feed to their larvae, which develop underground. These wasps are generally non-aggressive and are unlikely to sting humans.
- Risks: While their size may be alarming, cicada killers are generally harmless to humans. They will only sting if directly handled or provoked.
Conclusion
Understanding the common wasp species in North America can help homeowners identify which species they are dealing with and take appropriate action. While some wasps, like paper wasps and mud daubers, are beneficial and relatively non-aggressive, others, like yellow jackets and hornets, can pose a serious threat if their nests are disturbed. Identifying the species and their nesting habits is the first step in deciding whether DIY control methods are sufficient or if professional pest control is needed.
