Safety note: Caution: Capable of delivering a painful sting.
An invasive species in North America, the European Paper Wasp constructs paper-like nests in urban and rural areas. It is recognized for its slender waist and orange antennae.
Habitat
Prefers sheltered areas such as eaves, attics, and dense vegetation.
Diet
Feeds on nectar and insects, particularly caterpillars.
How common
Common
Best time to see a European Paper Wasp
The best time to see a European Paper Wasp is May–August, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 40,066 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Not certain it is a European Paper Wasp? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Often confused with
Recent European Paper Wasp sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted an European Paper Wasp?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.
5,300+species
63national parks
50states
More insects & arthropods
European Wool Carder Bee
Anthidium manicatum
European Yellowjacket
Vespula germanica
Eyed Click Beetle
Alaus oculatus
Falcate Orangetip
Anthocharis midea
Fall Armyworm Moth
Spodoptera frugiperda
Fall Armyworm Parasitoid
Diapetimorpha introita
Fall Cankerworm Moth
Alsophila pometaria
Fall Field Cricket
Gryllus pennsylvanicus