Northern Paper Wasp

Fields, woodlands, and urban areas; nests are commonly found under eaves, porch ceilings, and in attics.

Adults feed on nectar/juices; larvae are fed chewed-up caterpillars and other soft-bodied insects captured by the adults.

Eusocial insects with a complex hierarchy; they build umbrella-shaped paper nests from wood fibers mixed with saliva. They are known for their ability to recognize individual faces of other wasps in their colony.

Benefits the ecosystem as a natural pest control for gardens and agriculture; can pose a risk to humans via a painful sting if the nest is disturbed, which may cause allergic reactions.