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EUROPEAN WASPS

European wasps, Vespula germanica, are accidental introductions to Australia from Europe and were first found in Tasmania in 1959.

They can be serious pests. Wasps aggressively defend their nest, swarming out to attack if disturbed. Their sting is painful and multiple stings, or a sting in the throat, can be dangerous. Unlike bees, they can sting multiple times.

European wasps are also an environmental pest. In large numbers, they are a threat to native insects and spiders. They may however, have some beneficial value as predator of other pest insects.

European wasps are social insects and form large colonies. The queen hibernates through winter and emerges in spring to establish a new nest.

Where wasps are abundant, people dining alfresco should be wary of them and avoid drinking from opened bottles and cans.

Destruction of nests should be done by a qualified pest controller. For multiple stings or a sting in the throat, seek urgent medical aid. Otherwise apply an ice pack or anaesthetic spray.

PAPER WASPS

Polistes humilis or common paper wasps are generally slender with long thin wings. They are 10-15 millimetres long, tan in colour with darker bands and some yellow on the face.

Other species of paper wasps are larger or smaller and differently coloured. Paper wasps make nests of grey papery wood fibre material. The nests are cone-shaped, becoming round as more cells are added.

Nests are a maximum diameter of 10-12 centimetres, with numerous hexagonal cells underneath, some with white caps.

Nests are exposed and suspended by a short stalk under an overhang, often on a pergola, the eaves of a roof or in a shrub or tree.

Wasps cluster on the nest or forage in the garden and around buildings. Paper wasps are found across mainland southern  

Australia including: Paper wasps will often attack if they are disturbed or feel threatened.