Paper wasps are social insects commonly found around homes and other buildings, constructing their distinctive nests under the eaves of roofs, in trees and shrubs, under decking, in pipes and in other suitably sheltered locations. They are most active and prolific during the summer months.
There are a number of species found in South Africa, including an invasive species, the European paper wasp (Polistes dominula). The different species vary in size and colouration. Like bees it is only the females that have the ability to deliver a painful sting. When a nest is disturbed the wasps often react by vigorously vibrating their wings as a warning. If further approached or provoked they may launch a squadron of aerial defenders to ‘encourage’ the ‘threat’ to rapidly vacate the immediate area. Fortunately though, and generally speaking they are docile creatures and will not chase you. They are unlike bees, who can only deliver a single sting – their barbed stinger remains embedded in their victim, the bee thus makes the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the colony. Paper wasps on the other hand can sting repeatedly with no ill effect. The level of pain experienced varies from species to species. Some species can deliver an extremely painful sting while others are only moderately painful. Most stings only result in pain and localized swelling, however there is always a risk of an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. The pain usually subsides within 10 to 15 minutes whereas the swelling may persist for a number of days.
The nests of the paper wasp are made from chewed up plant fibers mixed with saliva, which produces a tough, light weight and water resistant papery material, hence the common name ‘paper wasp’. The colony is usually started by a single female, the queen; she begins by constructing a strong stalk attached to the underside of a branch or under the eaves of a roof. The hexagonal cells are added as the colony expands, and the nests regularly form into an umbrella shape. The stalk is smeared with a dark coloured ant–repellant secretion produced by the queen’s abdominal glands. This serves to help protect the nest from raiding ants who would happily feast upon the developing larvae.
The life cycle of the wasps are divided into four phases or stages: egg, larva, pupa and adult. The immature stages are passed in the protective confines of the cell. A single egg is laid in each cell. The egg hatches after a number of days and the larva feed on chewed up soft bodied insects such as caterpillar’s, until they are ready to pupate and then finally emerge from the cell as winged mature adults. The female workers are responsible for foraging for caterpillars and feeding the larvae. The queen never leaves the nest and is also fed by her daughters.
These fascinating insects are great to have around as they serve as the perfect natural eco-friendly pest control agents. So please think twice before you reach for that can of doom!
For more information on venomous animals, awareness training and talks as well as a professional 24hrs problem snake rescue service, contact the author at Wildlife Safety Solutions: 073 934 6156; info@wildlifesafetysolutions.co.za; www.wildlifesafetysolutions.co.za, FB Wildlife Safety Solutions
