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Wasps

Stinging insects that build paper nests under eaves, in shrubs, walls or the ground. Paper wasps are common across Australia; the invasive European wasp is a serious pest in southern states.

Written by PestMan Editorial TeamTechnical review pendingPublished Updated
Common species
Paper wasps; European wasp (southern states)
Nest
Grey paper cells or hidden cavity
Peak
Late summer
Emergency
Anaphylaxis: call 000
Risk level
Moderate to high

Wasp identification

How to recognise wasps

  • Narrow waist, two pairs of wings, and smooth bodies compared with hairy bees.
  • Paper wasps: long legs dangling in flight, brown or orange-and-yellow markings.
  • European wasps: bee-sized, bright yellow and black, legs tucked in flight.

Wasp overview

Paper wasps build open, umbrella-shaped nests of grey paper cells, often under eaves, pergolas and in shrubs. They sting to defend the nest and are often disturbed during gardening.

The European wasp (Vespula germanica) is an invasive species established in parts of southern Australia. It builds enclosed nests in the ground, walls or roof voids, scavenges around food and drinks and can sting repeatedly. Some states ask the public to report European wasps.

Behaviour

  • Workers defend the nest aggressively when disturbed.
  • Nests grow through spring and summer; most colonies die off over winter in cooler climates.
  • European wasps scavenge meat and sweet drinks in late summer.

Habitat

  • Under eaves, window awnings, pergolas, letterboxes and shrubs (paper wasps).
  • Underground, in retaining walls, wall cavities and roof voids (European wasps).

Lifecycle

  • A queen starts the nest in spring; workers emerge and expand it through summer.
  • New queens are produced late in the season and overwinter.

Food sources

  • Caterpillars and other insects fed to larvae.
  • Nectar and sugary foods for adults; European wasps also scavenge meat.

Entry points

  • Open windows and doors near nests.
  • Gaps into wall and roof cavities (European wasps).

Infestation signs

  • Wasps repeatedly flying to the same spot.
  • Visible paper nest.
  • A steady stream of wasps entering a hole in the ground or wall.

Health implications

  • Stings are painful and can cause severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in some people. Call 000 immediately for breathing difficulty, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse.
  • European wasps can sting multiple times.

Prevention

  • Check eaves and shrubs in spring while nests are small.
  • Cover food and drinks outdoors in late summer.
  • Keep bins sealed and pick up fallen fruit.

Treatment overview

  • Nest removal is best done by a professional, especially for large nests, nests in cavities and European wasp nests.
  • Never block the entrance to a nest in a wall or roof, as wasps may chew through into the house.
Product safety

If you use any pest product, read the label first and follow it exactly — it is a legal requirement in Australia. Keep products away from children, pets and food areas as the label directs.

Questions about wasps

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Spiders

Eight-legged predators that feed on insects. Most household spiders are harmless and useful, but a few Australian species, such as redbacks and funnel-webs, need to be treated with care.

Ants

Social insects that live in colonies and follow scent trails to food and water. Most ant problems in homes are nuisance foraging trails from colonies outside the house.

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Sources & further reading

PestMan provides general information only and does not replace licensed pest-management, medical, veterinary or structural advice. Always read and follow product labels. Read our disclaimer.