Posted July 23, 2025

Introduction: What Are Paper Wasps?

Paper wasps are slender, long-legged flying insects commonly seen in Connecticut during the warmer months. Often mistaken for yellow jackets or hornets, paper wasps are actually less aggressive but can still deliver painful stings—especially when their nest is disturbed.

They earn their name from their nests, which are made of chewed wood and plant fibers that resemble paper. These umbrella-shaped nests are commonly found under roof eaves, patio furniture, deck railings, and even inside wall voids.

Paper Wasp Identification

Unlike yellow jackets, which are more compact and aggressive, paper wasps have:

• Long, thin bodies with narrow waists
• Rusty brown, reddish-orange, or black coloring with yellow markings
• Legs that hang noticeably during flight
• Slower, more deliberate flying pattern

Their nests are open-celled and usually contain fewer individuals than a yellow jacket nest.

Where Do Paper Wasps Nest in Connecticut?

Paper wasps prefer to nest in sheltered spots like:

• Under eaves and porch ceilings
• Beneath railings or deck furniture
• Inside sheds and garages
• Wall voids and attic spaces
• Hollow plant stems or branches in trees and shrubs

In Connecticut, paper wasps become active from late spring through early fall, often peaking in July and August.

Are Paper Wasps Dangerous?

While generally not aggressive unless threatened, paper wasps will sting if:

• You accidentally disturb their nest (common with homeowners, painters, roofers, or landscapers)
• They feel vibrations from lawn equipment
• They get trapped in clothing or enter living spaces through soffits or vents

Multiple stings are possible, and reactions can range from mild swelling to serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Paper Wasps vs. Yellow Jackets 

👉 Learn more: Yellow Jackets vs. Paper Wasps: Know the Difference

DIY Paper Wasp Prevention Tips

Preventing paper wasps starts with early action. Here’s what you can do:

Seal Entry Points:

• Inspect soffits, vents, and cracks around windows and doors
• Use caulk or pest-proof mesh to block access

Remove Old Nests (In Winter):

• Paper wasps don’t reuse old nests
• Knock them down in winter when they’re inactive

Natural Deterrents:

• Peppermint oil and dish soap sprays may help deter nesting
• Wasp decoy nests may discourage others from building nearby

Keep Outdoor Areas Clean:

• Avoid sugary drinks and food spills on decks or patios
• Cover trash cans tightly

Warning: DIY nest removal during active season is risky. A single nest can contain dozens of wasps ready to defend it.

When to Call a Professional Pest Control Company

If you notice:

• Nesting in hard-to-reach areas like soffits, wall cavities, or inside attics
• Multiple wasp sightings indoors
• Anyone in the household is allergic to stings

…it’s time to call a licensed pest control professional.

At KEA Pest Control, we offer: 

• Safe, eco-friendly wasp removal options
• Fast, guaranteed treatments
• Preventive maintenance to keep them from returning

👉 Contact us for a free wasp inspection

FAQs About Paper Wasps

Do paper wasps reuse their nests?

No. Each spring, a new queen builds a new nest. However, they may build in the same area.

Are paper wasps aggressive?

Not unless their nest is disturbed, but they will sting if threatened or trapped.

Can paper wasps sting more than once?

Yes. Like yellow jackets, they can sting multiple times without dying.

Are paper wasps beneficial?

Yes, they help control garden pests like caterpillars. But when they nest near homes, the risks outweigh the benefits.

What time of year are paper wasps most active in Connecticut?

From late spring through early fall, peaking in mid to late summer.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Paper Wasps Take Over Your Home

Paper wasps may be beneficial in the garden, but when they build nests near people or enter living spaces, they become a safety hazard. If you're dealing with a paper wasp problem in Connecticut, KEA Pest Control can help with fast, safe, and eco-conscious solutions.

🔗 Related Internal Links:

• Yellow Jackets: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
• Safe Organic Pest Control Solutions
• How to Keep Pests Out of Your Home This Summer