Species Insects & ArthropodsNorthern Paper Wasp

Northern Paper Wasp

Polistes fuscatus

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Northern Paper Wasp (Polistes fuscatus)

The Northern Paper Wasp is a dark, variable paper wasp with reddish-brown and yellow markings, building small open combs under horizontal surfaces throughout its range. Fascinating research has shown that individual wasps can recognize each other by their unique facial patterns — a cognitive ability previously thought unique to vertebrates. Colonies are small, typically with fewer than 200 individuals.

Habitat
Forests, gardens, barns, and suburban areas throughout the East
Diet
Larvae: caterpillars. Adults: nectar and fruit juices
How common
Common

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