Common wasp vs European paper wasp
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a common wasp from a european paper wasp, and whether either one bites or stings.
Common wasp
Vespula vulgaris
European paper wasp
Polistes dominula
≠The key differences
Yellowjackets are more robust, build enclosed nests often underground or in cavities, and have a stockier appearance compared with the slender, long-legged Polistes.
⚖︎Side by side
| Common wasp | European paper wasp | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Painful sting | Painful sting |
| Size | Workers 10-16 mm; queens up to 20 mm | 12-20 mm body length |
| Colours | Yellow, Black, Brown (eyes/legs) | Yellow, Black, White / Pale, Reddish brown (antennae/legs) |
| Family | Vespidae | Vespidae |
| Habitat | Woodland edges, gardens, parks, urban areas; nests in cavities, attics, wall voids, under sheds, compost heaps or underground | Human structures (eaves, barns, sheds), shrubs, low trees, and garden areas in urban, suburban and rural landscapes |
| Range | Native across much of Europe and temperate Asia; introduced to New Zealand, Australia, Argentina and other regions | Native to Europe and parts of Asia; established as an invasive species in North America, South America, South Africa and other regions |
| Active | Spring to autumn; most active in summer and late summer afternoons | Active spring through autumn (temperate zones); day-active, most visible in warm daylight hours |
| Pest? | Yes | Yes |
🔍How to spot a common wasp
- Yellow and black banded abdomen with compact, stocky body and elbowed antennae
- Size: workers about 10-16 mm; queens noticeably larger
- Facial and abdominal pattern differences from similar species (see similar species)
🔍How to spot a european paper wasp
- Slender body 12-20 mm with narrow waist and long legs that hang during flight.
- Distinct black and yellow banding on abdomen, yellow face and bright orange antennae.
- Small open umbrella-shaped paper nests attached by a single stem, usually without a full outer envelope.
- Compared to native Polistes species in North America, P. dominula is much more extensively black-and-yellow (yellowjacket-like); geographic context helps identification.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a common wasp and a european paper wasp?
Yellowjackets are more robust, build enclosed nests often underground or in cavities, and have a stockier appearance compared with the slender, long-legged Polistes.
Is a common wasp or a european paper wasp more dangerous?
Common wasp: Painful sting. European paper wasp: Painful sting. Workers can deliver painful stings repeatedly; stings cause local pain, swelling and redness. Polistes dominula can deliver painful stings and will defend nests aggressively.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.