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Wasp Man Australia

Identification kit

European Wasp identification kit: wasp, paper wasp or bee?

Is it a European Wasp?

If you are in doubt — take a photo.

Do not poke the nest. Do not block the hole. Take a clear photo and send it.

European Wasp identification: bigger than a bee, black antennae, yellow legs. Yes, they are dangerous.
  • Bigger than a bee
  • Black antennae
  • Yellow legs

Quick checks

  • Size and shape: stout and about the size of a honey bee. Workers are about 12–16 mm; queens are about 20 mm.
  • Colour: bright yellow and black, with black triangular markings and small black dots on the abdomen.
  • Antennae: all black.
  • Legs: yellow.
  • Flight: fast, with legs held close to the body. They generally don't hover.

European Wasp or paper wasp?

Paper wasp

Paper wasps are longer and thinner, with a narrow waist and orange-brown antennae. When they fly, their back legs dangle, and they are often seen hovering around bushes, over lawns and near water. Their nests are usually above ground: a single open comb of papery cells about the size of a golf ball or crumpet, under eaves, fence capping or in shrubs.

European Wasp

European Wasp nests are rarely seen. They are usually underground or hidden in a wall or roof cavity, with a busy entrance hole, and they can grow to basketball size or larger.

European Wasp or honey bee?

Honey bees are a similar size but look hairy and a duller brown-orange, and they have dark legs. A honey bee worker usually dies after stinging, while a European Wasp can sting again and again. Bees visit flowers. European Wasps scavenge meat, pet food, sweet drinks and fruit.

Found a busy hole or gap?

Keep people and pets away, and don't block or spray it. Take a photo from a safe distance and report it here, or call 1300 492 777.

Report it here

Putting out traps or baits? Read why timing matters