Types of Wasps

Wasps are a diverse species generally found in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world. Wasps generally live wherever spiders are found, as spiders are their primary food source.

Bald-Faced Hornet

The bald-faced hornet is primarily black and white and gets its name from two white patches on its face. It is found throughout the United States and feeds on nectar and fruit juice. These wasps are aggressive.

European Hornet

The European hornet is much larger than most other wasp species and they hunt in groups. These nocturnal wasps are found in warmer climates of Europe. They are considered a threat to trees because they strip away the bark to get to the sap. This wasp's main food source is insects, though it eats fruit as well.

Yellow jacket

The yellow jacket has adapted to living among humans and is commonly found in the southern United States. These wasps primarily eat spiders and insects, but they can also feed on human food such as meat. Yellow jackets aid farmers in ridding crops of pests.

Paper Wasp

Paper wasps make the open-celled paper nests that often hang in corners of windows and buildings. Paper wasps are found throughout the United States; they also have a European counterpart. The wasps are predators of insects such as spiders and crickets and can keep these nusiance insects at bay near a home.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers build their homes from mud. These wasps build nests against buildings, trees or rocks. Mud daubers are prevalant in the southern United States. These wasps are docile and will only sting when provoked.

References

• Pest World for Kids
• Colorado State University
• Saguaro-Juniper