The Wasp

Tree wasps - Dolichovespula spp

Key features

Fully matured adult wasps have the yellow and black pattern on the abdomen. They have a black head and thorax and typically these adults are between 15-20mm in length. The wings of this species are heavily veined and transparent.

Biology

The Tree wasp is a social insect that lives in a colony. Each spring a new colony is established by an over wintering queen. The queen makes a smaller nest at first made from paper, which it makes by mixing wood and saliva. As the colony grows bigger throughout the summer the nest grows with it. Each nest harbours thousands of individuals.

The Tree wasp feed on nectar and other sweet materials. Towards the end of each summer the colony develops males to mate with the presumptive queen.

Distribution

This species is found worldwide. The Dolichovespula Norvegica and the Dolichovespula Sylvestris are the two native British species.

Tree wasps usually produce a nest, which is grey in colour. These nests are most commonly spotted in trees, nest boxes, rafters and dormer windows.

Significance

With the size of the colonies, the wasp can cause a big problem if interfered with by humans. The wasps can cause painful and sometimes dangerous stings.

Control

Insecticide dust is the most common method of control. The dust is forced into the nest and around the entrance. The dust starves the wasps of oxygen that kills the queen.