When you think of a wasp you’ve seen in South Florida, the paper wasp may be the first one to come to mind. They are one of the most common series of wasp species in the area.

Paper wasps get their name from their small, papery nests they create in places like in doorways and on eaves. Unlike hornets, which build giant paper nests, paper wasp create small paper nests. Measuring about an 1-1.5 inches long on average, paper wasps have a black and yellow color scheme.

These wasps typically stay outdoors. When paper wasps get into South Florida homes, they can be found in eaves, attics and near windows.

It’s easy to miss their tiny nests, and when you disturb their nests, they often go on the attack, which results in multiple painful stings. Unlike bees, wasps do not lose their stingers. They can just keep stinging until they feel the threat is gone.