Native Ropalidia Paper Wasps
Slim, reddish-brown native wasps that live in small colonies with small paper nests.
- Group: Paper wasps (Ropalidia)
- Size: About 10-15 mm
- Nest: Small paper comb
Request Wasp Removal
Tell us about the wasp problem and where the nest is - we'll get back to you fast.
About Native Ropalidia Paper Wasps
Ropalidia paper wasps are slender, reddish-brown native wasps that live in small colonies. Their nests are compact paper combs, often hanging from a leaf, twig, wire or the underside of an eave. Because the colony is small, the nest can be easy to miss until you brush past it.
What Native Ropalidia Paper Wasps Look Like
Look for a slim body, a narrow waist and rusty brown or orange colouring with darker bands. They are smaller and thinner than Polistes paper wasps.
Nests and Life Cycle
A small group of females builds a paper comb from chewed plant fibre and rears young in the open cells. Some colonies stay small, while others grow through the warmer months.
Is It a Problem at Your Property?
Ropalidia wasps will defend their nest if it is disturbed, so nests beside doors, clotheslines and garden paths are best removed. Contact us if you are seeing small, rusty-coloured wasps around one spot.
If wasps are nesting where they shouldn't be, we can help with paper wasp removal - contact us for an inspection and a clear written quote.
More Wasp Types
Native Ropalidia Paper Wasps FAQs
How are Ropalidia wasps different from other paper wasps?
They are usually smaller and more slender, with a rusty colour, and their nests are often smaller and more compact.
What should I do if I find a wasp nest?
Keep people and pets away, don't block the entrance and don't knock or spray the nest. Contact us and we will identify the wasp and arrange an inspection.
Can you identify the wasp for me?
Yes. Tell us what you can see - size, colour, nest shape and where it is - and we will identify it when we inspect.
Found a Wasp Nest? Call Us Now
Please don't disturb an active nest. Call us or send the quote form and we will arrange nest removal for your home or business.