 |
 |
|
 |
| |
We provide a free termite inspection for
the property in maintenance or in escrow.
We’re ready to work with the home owners,
real estate agents, and escrow
for your convenience. |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| |
 |
Identification |
Most species are about 1 inch in length, but a few may be as small as 1/2-inch or as large as 1-1/2 inches. Many are reddish-brown or dark red. Some species are more orange, while others have varying bright stripes of red and yellow.
Habitat |
Most paper wasp nests are located in exposed areas beneath soffits, in the corners of windows, under awnings, under porches, and beneath decks. These wasps, however, will also nest within voids and other protected sites, such as gas grills, electric outlet boxes, hose reels, attics, and crawl spaces. They |
 |
often enter attics through holes in the soffits, attic vent screens, and underneath shingles.
Food Source |
They are omnivorous, feeding on fallen fruit, nectar and carrion, but mostly catching other insects including caterpillars, flies, crickets, and other pests. Common wasps will also attempt to invade honey bee nests to steal their honey. Some wasps may become aggressive scavengers around human food and may be common around outdoor activities where food or drinks are served.
Life Cycle |
Common wasps do not have a mating flight like ants do. Mating takes place between young queens and drones in the vicinity of the nest. At the end of autumn the nest dies and the only wasps left alive are the young mated queens. They fly away and find a safe place to hibernate for the winter. It is not uncommon to discover a hibernating queen in the folds of curtains in houses. Within each of the hibernating queen wasps is a tightly packed ball of dormant sperm stored from mating the previous summer. |
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
