Common wasps in the ACT
European wasps
European wasps
European wasps (Vespula germanica) are bright yellow and black, with bright yellow legs. They are mostly black on their front with bright yellow markings, and bright yellow on their back with black stripes. There are also black dots between the stripes down each side of the abdomen, sometimes joining the stripes.
European wasp nests are usually in the ground. They can be easily seen due to the constant wasp activity above the nest, but the entrance hole may be well hidden. Nests can also be built in the cavity of walls and roof spaces of buildings. The wasps will excavate the plaster board to extend the space for their nest. Nests in buildings can also be identified by a constant stream of wasps going to and from a particular location.
European wasps are attracted to sweet drinks, food, insects and pet food, and will feed on roadkill. You should feed your pets indoors if wasps are present as the wasps can be very aggressive if disturbed.
Asian paper wasps
Asian paper wasps
Asian paper wasps (Polistes chinensis antennalis) are a vivid black and yellow colour compared with the dull brown of the native paper wasp species. They also appear more black than European wasps with a thinner abdomen.
The Asian paper wasp competes with native insects for food. They can significantly reduce populations of prey species such as butterflies and may impact adversely on pollinator species. However, they also collect caterpillars of pest species to feed their brood. This wasp may compete with honeybees and native birds at nectar and honeydew sources. It will compete directly with the local Australian native paper wasp, which has similar nesting and feeding habits.
Asian paper wasp nests are like those of the native paper wasp. They are built on man-made structures and hidden in trees and bushes. Wasps often sting people when their nests are disturbed, making them a public nuisance.
Australian native paper wasps
Australian native paper wasps
Australian native paper wasps (Polistes humilis) are similar in size and shape to the Asian paper wasp but are brown in colour.
Reporting European wasp nests on ACT Government land
The ACT Government treats European wasp nests on ACT Government land.
Report a wasp nest or sighting by completing the European Wasp, Ants or Bees Report form. You‘ll then receive a notification with your reference code.
To discuss your submission, contact Access Canberra on 13 22 81, quoting your reference code.
The team will aim to investigate and control European wasp nests on ACT Government land within 5 to 10 business days. They will respond to other enquiries as soon as possible.
Priority will be given to reports where the nest’s location is known. Other factors that affect prioritisation include public safety, available resources and the need for further information or investigation.
Once the nest has been removed, you’ll be notified by email or phone.
Wasp nests on private land
We do not treat nests on private land. A wasp nest on your property is your responsibility. It should be removed by a qualified pest control operator. Do not attempt to treat the nest as you risk being stung.
First aid for wasp stings
If you are stung by a wasp, use an ice pack to reduce the pain and swelling. However, seek medical help immediately if you:
- are stung in the mouth
- have difficulty breathing
- develop an itchy rash.
Find out more about how to treat wasp stings.
