Paper Wasp Identification & Control

Quick Identification

• Size: About ¾ inch long
• Color: Northern paper wasp: brownish-red to black. European paper wasp: black and yellow (often confused with yellow jackets). Orange antennae on European species help distinguish.
• Key Features: Slender body; long legs that dangle during flight; narrow waist. Builds open, umbrella-shaped paper nests (no outer envelope)
• Nest Type: Single open comb of hexagonal cells, usually under eaves, porch ceilings, deck railings, and window frames; up to 75 wasps per nest
• Active Season: Spring through fall
• Risk Level: Moderate — not aggressive away from nest, but will sting to defend it; can sting multiple times

The Most Common Wasp Around Homes

Paper wasps are the most frequently encountered wasp around residential structures in Illinois. Their distinctive open-comb nests — which resemble small upside-down umbrellas — are a familiar sight under eaves, porch ceilings, deck soffits, and behind shutters. The wasps build these nests by chewing wood fibers and mixing them with saliva to form a papery construction material.

Paper wasps are generally less aggressive than yellow jackets. Away from their nest, they’re unlikely to sting. However, they’ll defend their nest vigorously if it’s disturbed — which is a problem when nests are built near doorways, porches, and high-traffic areas. They can sting multiple times, and the sting is painful.

There’s an important identification note: the European paper wasp, which has become increasingly common in Illinois, is black and yellow and closely resembles a yellow jacket. The key difference is behavior and body shape — paper wasps are slimmer with longer legs that hang visibly during flight, and they fly more slowly and deliberately than the darting, aggressive yellow jacket. Orange antennae on the European species are another distinguishing feature.

Paper wasps are actually beneficial predators — they capture caterpillars and other garden pests to feed their larvae. When nests are in low-traffic areas, they can be left alone. When they’re near doors, porches, play areas, or anywhere people regularly pass, removal is warranted. Sanctuary Pest Control handles wasp nest treatment safely. Call 815-993-3472.