[ad_1]
Yellow jackets and paper wasps are incredibly similar wasps, and it’s hard for the average person to tell them apart.
They are both yellow and black with thin bodies, slender wings and similar behavior. These wasps are both omnivores that prey on insects and eat plant nectar. They are social, short-lived insects.
However, they also have their differences: yellow jackets are more likely to approach humans, both to steal food and to sting. Their bodies and color are slightly different, if you can get close enough to check! They also nest differently.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything there is to know about the differences between yellow jackets and paper wasps.
Compare Yellow Jacket with Paper Wasp
When you look at photos of these insects side by side, it’s quite easy to tell the difference between them. Unfortunately, wasps don’t tend to sit next to another species, making it harder to know what you’re dealing with.
The following information may be helpful for identification, but never approach a paper wasp or yellow jacket when trying to tell them apart.
Yellow jackets can be quite aggressive and sometimes sting unprovoked – better to look after your own safety first!
| paper wasp | yellow jacket | |
| Colour | Black and yellow, but more black | Black and yellow, but more yellow |
| wings | Light and very translucent | Dark and slightly translucent |
| Nest | Above ground, in the shape of a honeycomb | Underground |
| Body | big, thin body | Small, chubby body |
| Flight | Dangling legs while flying | Hidden legs while flying |
| eating pattern | omnivore | omnivore |
| Behaviour | Not agressive | Aggressive |
The 7 Key Differences Between Paper Wasps And Yellow Jackets
1. The paper wasp is bigger
Paper wasps are larger than yellow jackets. Paper wasps have long, slender bodies. Yellow coats are smaller and slightly fuller.
Both wasps have a clearly defined head, mesosoma and metosoma. These are the three “sections” of their body.
2. Yellow jackets have dark wings
Yellow coats have thin, round, dark wings. They are translucent, but with dark brown veins running through them.
Paper wasps have thin, pointed, translucent wings. The veins on the wings of these wasps are yellow-orange in color.
3. The wasps are slightly different in color
Paper wasps have a black base with yellow stripes and spots on their bodies. Their legs are black at the base and an orange-yellow color at the bottom. Their antenna is similar, with black on the underside and orange on the top.
Yellow coats are the opposite: Their bodies are usually yellow with black patterns. Their legs are mostly yellow and their antennae is completely black.
4. You can see the legs of paper wasps when they fly
Paper wasps dangle their legs in flight. If you can see the insect’s legs, it is most likely a paper wasp!
Yellow jackets raise their legs when they fly, so you’re much less likely to see them.
5. Yellow jackets nest underground
Yellow jackets have discreet nests underground. If you step on their nest, a yellow jacket — or a swarm if you’re unlucky — can fly out to defend their territory.
Paper wasps nest above the ground, usually on structures. Their nests are shaped like honeycombs and are made of wood.
6. Paper wasps are more common in the garden
Paper wasp food consists of insects and plant nectar. They will most likely hang out in your yard, preying on other insects and buzzing around your flowers.
They are also good for the garden as they help kill pests!
yellow jackets eat a similar diet of insects, nectar and fruits. They are attracted to meat and sweet smells, and may buzz around your picnic table in the local park.
They don’t mind stealing food!
7. Yellow jackets are aggressive
As we discussed above, yellow jackets are prone to territorial behavior. If you are near their nest or happen to step above it, they will likely swarm and sting.
Yellow jackets are also known to sting unprovoked.
Paper wasps can sting, but they are not aggressive wasps. They are most likely to sting when provoked, such as when you tamper with their nest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are paper wasps or yellow jackets dangerous to humans?
Both insects can and will sting if threatened. However, only the yellow jacket will sting unprovoked.
Yellow jackets are also territorial and quick to respond – you may not see a sting coming if you accidentally walk near their underground nest.
Paper wasps are beneficial insects, especially in the garden. They are usually not dangerous to humans and they kill garden pests keeping plants healthier!
What should I do if I have been stung by a wasp?
Most people will be fine after a wasp sting. However, people who are allergic should seek medical attention immediately. Even if you have been stung by several wasps at the same time, you should see a doctor.
Anyone who has been stung should wash the wound as soon as possible. Apply ice and take an anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen, to reduce swelling.
Watch your sting for signs of infection in the days after the sting.
If you notice excessive redness, swelling, or other symptoms, call your doctor.
[ad_2]
Source link