Paper Wasp Polistes species
Identification
These wasps have slender bodies with yellow and brown markings.
Location
Common statewide
Size
Three quarter inch
Diet
They feed on insects and nectar.
Habitat
They occur near buildings and shrubs.
Activity Period
April to October
Behavior
They build open paper nests under eaves and branches. They are active in warm months.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in summer.
Population
The population is stable statewide.
History
They have long been common in Ohio.
Human Interactions
They may sting when nests are disturbed.
Facts
They help control pest insects.
Sources
ODNR academic sources
Insects nectar | Buildings shrubs forests | Statewide