The aim of this project is to collect observations of paper wasp species (genus: Polistes) in North America. We are also interested in collection information on the type of habitat where wasps are observed (on a nest? Flying around? In the forest? In the middle of the city?) as well as photographs showing body coloration.

Paper wasps form open nests out of paper, often on the sides of building or other man-made structures. The United States is home to at least 16 native species and one invasive species (Polistes dominula) of paper wasp. The ranges of some species extend into Southern Canada or Northern Mexico. However, the exact distributions of the different species is currently unknown.

Paper wasps of the same species can vary in coloration. In some species, female wasps can have variable facial markings. All male paper wasps have entirely yellow faces. The distribution of color variation is also poorly understood. less ↑