- Polistes dominula, commonly known as the European paper wasp, is one of the most widespread and recognizable species of social wasps. Native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, this adaptable insect has successfully expanded its range to North America and other regions, where it is often considered invasive. Known for its striking black-and-yellow coloration, Polistes dominula is admired for its ecological role and complex social behavior.
- It moves with agile precision, its slender body and translucent wings enabling it to navigate effortlessly through the air. Measuring about 10–15 millimeters in length, this wasp is slightly smaller than some of its relatives but no less remarkable.
- The European paper wasp’s most striking features include its bold aposematic (warning) coloration and its relatively smooth, elongated body. Its face is adorned with distinctive black markings, which vary between individuals and play a role in social hierarchy. Unlike many other wasps, Polistes dominula has a more diverse diet, feeding on a wide range of insects and sugary substances, which contributes to its adaptability and survival.
- Polistes dominula lives in small colonies, typically consisting of a dominant queen and subordinate workers. These colonies are founded in spring, with the queen constructing a paper-like nest made from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva. The nests are often found in sheltered locations, such as under eaves, in shrubs, or on man-made structures. Workers take on the tasks of foraging, nest maintenance, and caring for the queen’s offspring, while males and new queens are produced later in the season.
- The life cycle of Polistes dominula is closely tied to the seasons. Colonies grow rapidly during summer and decline in autumn as the queen and workers die off. Only the newly mated queens survive the winter, hibernating in protected locations until the next spring. These wasps are important predators of garden pests, making them beneficial to ecosystems, though their presence near human activity can sometimes lead to conflicts.
- Despite their ecological benefits, European paper wasps are often considered pests in regions where they have been introduced, as they can outcompete native species and disrupt local ecosystems. Conservation efforts focus on managing their populations in non-native areas while appreciating their role in their native habitats. Their adaptability, social structures, and striking appearance make them a fascinating subject of study in entomology.
