The European paper wasp (Vespula Crabro) is a species of wasp that belongs to the family Vespidae. Native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, this wasp has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where it has established itself as a common and widespread species. The European paper wasp is known for its distinctive paper-like nest, which is typically built in protected areas such as eaves, attics, and wall voids.
Physical Characteristics and Behavior
The European paper wasp is a relatively large wasp, with workers typically measuring between 1.8 and 2.2 cm in length. The body is yellow and black, with a distinctive pattern of stripes on the abdomen. The wasp has a narrow waist and a long, pointed abdomen, which is used for stinging and defending the nest. European paper wasps are social insects, living in colonies with a single queen and thousands of workers. The queen is responsible for laying eggs, while the workers are responsible for foraging, caring for young, and defending the nest.
Nesting and Colony Structure
European paper wasps build their nests using a mixture of saliva and wood pulp, which is shaped into a paper-like material. The nest is typically umbrella-shaped, with a single entrance and a series of cells where eggs are laid and young are raised. The nest is usually built in a protected area, such as an eave, attic, or wall void, where it is safe from predators and harsh weather. The colony is typically founded by a single queen in the spring, and grows rapidly over the summer as new workers emerge.
| Colony Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Queen Size | 2.5-3.0 cm |
| Worker Size | 1.8-2.2 cm |
| Nest Size | Up to 30 cm in diameter |
| Colony Size | Up to 10,000 workers |
Diet and Foraging Behavior
European paper wasps are omnivores, feeding on a wide range of food sources including nectar, pollen, and insects. They are important pollinators, visiting flowers to collect nectar and pollen for their young. They also feed on insects, including aphids, caterpillars, and flies, which are caught using their long, pointed abdomens. European paper wasps are also known to scavenge for food, feeding on sweet substances such as soda and fruit juice.
Pest Control and Management
European paper wasps can be considered pests, particularly when they build their nests in close proximity to human habitations. They can be managed using a combination of exclusion and elimination methods, including sealing entry points, removing food sources, and using insecticides. It is essential to exercise caution when attempting to control a European paper wasp colony, as they can become aggressive when threatened.
- Seal all entry points to prevent wasps from entering buildings
- Remove food sources, such as sweet substances and insect attractants
- Use insecticides, such as pyrethroids or organophosphates, to control wasp populations
What is the best way to control a European paper wasp colony?
+The best way to control a European paper wasp colony is to use a combination of exclusion and elimination methods, including sealing entry points, removing food sources, and using insecticides. It is essential to exercise caution when attempting to control a colony, as wasps can become aggressive when threatened.
Are European paper wasps important pollinators?
+Yes, European paper wasps are important pollinators, visiting flowers to collect nectar and pollen for their young. They are also known to feed on insects, including aphids and caterpillars, which can help to control pest populations.
