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French paper wasp

Polistes gallicus

A species of Dominula-group paper wasps

Polistes gallicus (also historically referred to as Polistes foederatus) is a fairly common species of paper wasp found in various parts of Europe, excluding England, Denmark, and Scandinavia, from warmer climates to cooler regions north of the Alps. The distribution of P. gallicus also extends into northern regions of Africa, Israel, Iran, and even parts of China and Russia. Nests of these social insects are created in these various conditions. The Polistes species uses an oral secretion to construct their nests, which consist of a combination of saliva and chewed plant fibers. This structural mixture physically protects the nest from various harsh elements and from weathering over time.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Does the French paper wasp sting humans?
Human Stinging
General Info About French paper wasp
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Attributes of French paper wasp
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The French paper wasp can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Predators of French paper wasp Larvae
Birds, rodents, reptiles, various arthropods such as ants and spiders
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Predators of Adult French paper wasp
Birds, bats, spiders, preying mantises, other wasp species
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Interesting Facts About French paper wasp
French paper wasp can recognize individual faces, a trait more commonly associated with mammals and birds than with insects.
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Scientific Classification of French paper wasp
Tips for Finding French paper wasp
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Adult Habitat of French paper wasp
Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Forests and Woodlands
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Habitat Preferences of French paper wasp Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of french paper wasp develop inside papery nests typically found in sheltered locations such as eaves, attics, or hollows of trees, where they are provisioned by adult wasps. These nests are constructed by the mated females. To observe the pupation stage, one should search the same nests as larvae since they spin a silk cap over their cell opening and pupate within. Meanwhile, to find adults, scanning around flowers, decaying fruit, or other food sources is advisable, as they feed on nectar and other sweet substances. Parks, gardens, and other urban spaces with abundant flowering plants serve as common habitats for the adults.
Are French paper wasp harmful?
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Are French paper wasp harmful to humans?

French paper wasp has a sting needle at the tail, which can sting people. But it is not aggressive and rarely attacks humans unless it is threatened. Even so, it should be treated with caution, because it will be very painful after being stung, and it will cause redness and swelling.
Harmful Effects of French paper wasp
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Toxic to Humans
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Human Stinging
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Toxic to Humans

French paper wasp possesses a venom delivered through stings, potentially harmful to humans. Its venom contains neurotoxins, which, upon contact, can cause pain, swelling, redness, and, in rare cases, nausea or headaches. Typically, the impact is mild with symptoms subsiding naturally over time. Severe complications are unusual unless multiple stings occur.

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Does the French paper wasp sting humans?

French paper wasp may sting humans primarily in defense when their nests are disturbed or they feel threatened. Stinging incidents usually occur due to unintentional human interaction with their habitats. Females possess a stinger and are the ones who sting; males cannot sting. The sting can lead to pain and allergic reactions in humans.

More Effects of French paper wasp

Beneficial Effects of French paper wasp
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Pollinator
Predators of Pests
Pollinator
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
French paper wasp is attracted to flowers by their vivid colors and enticing smells. While primarily seeking nectar, they inadvertently collect pollen on their bodies. As they move from flower to flower, they transfer pollen, aiding in plant fertilization. This incidental contact during feeding makes them effective pollinators.
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Offspring
Diets
Caterpillars
French paper wasp engages in diverse predatory habits. As a paper wasp, it's primarily the larvae that require a protein-rich diet to grow, which the adults provide by capturing mainly caterpillars. Adult wasps benefit indirectly through this action since it ensures the survival and strength of their progeny.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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