Common Name:
Red Paper Wasp
Scientific Name:
Polistes carolina
Description:
The red paper wasp is the most prevalent and aggressive wasp in Middle Tennessee and can range between 3/4 of an inch to an inch long. They are narrow-waisted wasps with reddish-brown to dark red or orange coloring and are know for building papery nests that hang down similar in shape to that of an umbrella.
Places Most Commonly Found:
Overhangs, eaves, soffits, wooden siding, and the cracks around windows are the most common places red paper wasps are found.
Most Active Period:
Red paper wasps are active during the day and return to the nest at night.
Difficulty of Control:
Aerial nests of paper wasps can easily be eliminated using rapid knock-down insecticides or aerosol products specifically designed for this purpose. However, red paper wasps are a very resilient insect. Be safe and get a professional to deal with wasps.
