Western Paper Wasp (Mischocyttarus)

Types of Wasps and Bees Types of Bees Types of Wasps

The Western Paper Wasp (Mischocyttarus flavitarsis) is one of only three or four paper wasps in genus Mischocyttarus that are found in the United States.

Most Mischocyttarus species are residents of tropical regions. Like its relatives the polistes, it is a social wasp that builds an umbrella shaped paper nest.

The picture shows its characteristic light abdominal color. Physically, the extended thin waist differentiates it from polistes species.

They are beneficial insects and nest removal decisions in residential areas often focus on a cost benefit analysis. They are natural pollinators for flower gardens and prey on a variety of insects in the garden pest category such as caterpillars. Like the Polistes, Mischocyttarus are not considered agressive, however, they will sting if the nest is threatened.

© 2005 Patricia A. Michaels