Paper wasp nest fragment

Attached to sheltered surfaces around buildings, eaves, porches, vegetation, and other protected locations in temperate regions.

Adults consume nectar and other sugary liquids; they capture and chew caterpillars and other insects to feed developing larvae.

Paper wasps build exposed, umbrella-like combs from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. Colonies are seasonal, usually founded by one or more queens and abandoned before winter; the small brown insect shown may be a wasp or unrelated debris.

They can sting when nests are disturbed, posing greater risk to allergic individuals. They benefit ecosystems by pollinating plants and controlling caterpillar and other insect populations.