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Yellow paper-wasp

Yellow paper-wasp

Polistes olivaceus

A species of Dominula-group paper wasps, Also known as Macao paper wasp

Yellow paper-wasp are known for their intriguingly vivid yellow coloration, an uncommon characteristic among wasp species. Their unique thermal regulatory system allows them to thrive in varying climates. Yellow paper-wasp's contribute significantly to the ecosystem through their role as pollinators and as preying on certain insect pests. Moreover, their complex social structures showcase some of the animal kingdom’s most fascinating manifestations of cooperative behavior.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Yellow paper-wasp sting humans?
Human Stinging
General Info About Yellow paper-wasp
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Attributes of Yellow paper-wasp
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
human habitation
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, honeydew secreted by aphids, fruit juices, insects, spiders
Larva Food Source
Caterpillars, aphids, beetle larvae, fly larvae, other soft-bodied insects
Biting/stinging
The Yellow paper-wasp may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Yellow paper-wasp has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Yellow 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
The Yellow paper-wasp typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
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Species Status of Yellow paper-wasp
It is native to India & Pakistan and East Asia, but also introduced to East Africa, and Pacific island nations such as the Marquesas Islands, Easter Island, Hawaii, and the Cook Islands, in the South Pacific.
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Distribution Area of Yellow paper-wasp
India, East Asia, East Africa, Pacific island nations
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Life Cycle of Yellow paper-wasp
Egg The egg stage of yellow paper-wasp begins with an oval, whitish egg that is laid either singly or in clusters. Over time, the egg will darken and grow slightly as the creature inside develops.
Larva After hatching, the larva of yellow paper-wasp resembles a worm-like creature, lacking wings and complex eyes. It eats voraciously to support rapid growth, usually molting several times and increasing significantly in size.
Pupal The pupal stage is a time of transformation inside a cocoon-like structure where the yellow paper-wasp undergoes significant changes. It does not feed during this stage and gradually develops wings, legs, and adult features.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult yellow paper-wasp’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Yellow paper-wasp
1.8 - 2.5 cm
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Predators of Yellow paper-wasp Larvae
Arachnids (specifically spiders), birds, reptiles (specifically lizards), mammals (specifically bats), insects (such as predatory beetles, ants, and wasps)
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Predators of Adult Yellow paper-wasp
Birds, spiders, mantises, reptiles (such as lizards and geckos), mammals (such as bats and monkeys)
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Interesting Facts About Yellow paper-wasp
Yellow paper-wasp use a unique 'paper' to construct their nests, which they create by mixing saliva with fibers gathered from dead wood and plant stems.
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Scientific Classification of Yellow paper-wasp
Tips for Finding Yellow paper-wasp
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Youth Habitat of Yellow paper-wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Yellow paper-wasp
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Yellow paper-wasp
Sweet substances such as sugar water, ripe fruit, or even meat can attract yellow paper-wasp as they forage for food sources to support their colony.
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Habitat Preferences of Yellow paper-wasp Through Different Life Stages
For the yellow paper-wasp, adults are typically found around eaves, attics, or similar structures where they construct their nests out of a paper-like material made from chewed plant fibers mixed with saliva. The search for larvae would take one to the interiors of these nests, as this is where adults lay their eggs and larvae develop, often in hexagonal cells. To find pupae, it is unnecessary to search beyond these nests, for larvae metamorphose into pupae within the very same cells they grow in. Hence, observing the changing stages of yellow paper-wasp involves careful examination of their nests, commonly hanging in sheltered, man-made or natural structures.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Yellow paper-wasp
The best time to find yellow paper-wasp is during the daytime, especially late morning to early afternoon when temperatures are warmer and the adults are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Yellow paper-wasp
Warm, sunny days with little wind are ideal for locating yellow paper-wasp, as they are less active during cold, rainy, or windy weather conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Yellow paper-wasp at Different Life Stages
Larva Yellow paper-wasp larvae are typically hidden within the nest. To find them, look for the paper-like nests yellow paper-wasp build, often attached to structures such as eaves or branches. Be cautious and do not disturb the nest; observe from a distance.
Pupal Yellow paper-wasp pupae remain inside their cells within the nest and are not directly observable. The best way to infer their presence is by noticing capped cells within an active yellow paper-wasp nest.
Adult Yellow paper-wasp adults can be found flying around searching for food, water, and nest-building materials. To find adult yellow paper-wasp, look near flowers, overripe fruit, or water sources in gardens, orchards, and near human-made structures. Always observe from a respectful distance to avoid agitating them.
Are Yellow paper-wasp harmful?
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The yellow paper-wasp can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are Yellow paper-wasp harmful to humans?

Yellow 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 Yellow paper-wasp
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Toxic to Humans
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Human Stinging
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Toxic to Humans

Yellow paper-wasp possess a defense mechanism involving a sting that can inject neurotoxins into humans. Although the sting is usually mild, it can cause pain and swelling. In rare cases, severe toxic impacts may include nausea, headaches, and fever. No long-term effects are typical except in instances of multiple stings, which can increase symptom severity.

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Toxic to Animals

Yellow paper-wasp is known for its ability to deliver a painful sting that can lead to severe reactions, especially in humans. The adult stage of this species uses its sting both defensively and offensively. When animals such as dogs, cats, or birds are stung, the intense venom can cause pain, swelling, and in rare cases, more serious health effects. Smaller creatures like bees and ants may succumb to the venom more readily due to their size. Sensitivity varies widely, with some animals experiencing only mild discomfort, while others, especially humans, could have life-threatening allergic reactions.

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Does the Yellow paper-wasp sting humans?

Yellow paper-wasp only sting humans in defense, typically if their nests are disturbed. The females possess a sting, used to inject venom, leading to pain and swelling. Stinging is costly as it can lead to injury or death for yellow paper-wasp. Encounters resulting in stings are often accidental and due to human proximity to nests.

More Effects of Yellow paper-wasp

Beneficial Effects of Yellow paper-wasp
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Pollinator
Predators of Pests
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Yellow paper-wasp is attracted to flowers by their vivid colors and sweet scents. While primarily seeking nectar, they inadvertently collect pollen on their bodies, which is then transferred to other flowers, aiding in plant pollination.
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults
Purpose
Feed Offspring
Diets
Caterpillars, Beetles, Small Arthropods
Yellow paper-wasp has developed effective strategies for hunting and subduing pest species. During its adult stage, it voraciously preys upon various arthropods, mainly focusing on caterpillars and beetles, which it feeds to its larvae. These insects are grabbed using their powerful mandibles and stung, paralyzing them before being fed to the offspring.
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