European Wasps
Worker wasps are 12-15mm long (about the size of a Honeybee), bright yellow (not orange) with black markings including arrow-shaped marks down the middle of the abdomen with paired black spots on the sides. Wings are long and transparent, antennae black and legs mostly yellow. Queens, usually only seen in winter and spring, are similar but larger (20mm). Nest is nearly always concealed, commonly underground or in a roof or wall cavity.

Pest Status
Serious pest. Wasps will aggressively defend their nest by swarming out to attack a disturbance. Sting is painful and multiple stings or a sting in the throat can be dangerous or fatal.

Management

!Warning! Do not approach an active nest. Call a pest control operator to destroy nest.

!Warning! Be aware of wasp hazard at barbecues and picnics. Cover food and drinks. Do not drink directly out of cans or bottles. Wasps can get on food and into drink bottles and cans outdoors, where they can be accidentally swallowed.  

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