Exotic paper wasps in Tasmania
Asian paper wasp (Polistes chinensis) and European paper wasp (Polistes dominula), and other Polistes species are Declared Pests, declared under the Biosecurity Act 2019.
Paper wasps look similar to European wasps but are slimmer, with orange/tan antennae rather than black. Paper wasps are about 1.5-2.5 cm long. Paper wasp nests have exposed cells and are found above ground attached to items like walls, fences or plants.
These invasive pests can be a public nuisance and compete with our native species for food and habitat.
Paper wasps have been detected in Sorell, Launceston, East Devonport and Latrobe.
Biosecurity Tasmania would like to hear from any residents who think they may have seen a nest or other signs of paper wasp activity.
What to do if you think you have seen exotic paper wasps
If you think you may have seen an exotic paper wasp please contact Biosecurity Tasmania
To report by email: Please include “Suspect paper wasp” in the subject heading, a sighting address in the body of the email, if possible attach a clear photo of the nest/wasps and email to biosecurity.tasmania@nre.tas.gov.au
To report by phone: Please call Biosecurity Tasmania on 6165 3777
WARNING: paper wasps sting. Do not disturb nests or provoke wasps in any way. In particular, do not approach nests of the similar looking European wasp or areas with high European wasp activity as disturbance may provoke wasps to attack and multiple stings can be life threatening.
European paper wasp and nest
Asian paper wasp
Photo: NRE Tas
Asian paper wasp nest
Asian paper wasp is native to Eastern Asia, including parts of Japan and China. It has been introduced to New Zealand, where it is widespread on the North Island. Within Australia, it is known to occur in NSW and the ACT. In areas where it is established, it can become a considerable public nuisance and have potential environmental impacts.
European paper wasps are native to the Mediterranean region and are now found in southern Europe, northern Africa, the Middle East, China, the USA and Australia. Within Australia it has become established in Western Australia (since 1977) and more recently in Victoria.