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.
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.
Asian paper wasps have been detected in Southern Tasmania.
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.
European paper wasps have been found in 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 European paper wasp activity.
What to do if you think you have seen exotic paper wasps
If you think you may have seen 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 (which are usually larger, without exposed cells and often hidden underground or other concealed areas) or areas with high European wasp activity as disturbance may provoke wasps to attack and multiple stings can be life threatening.
Asian and European Paper wasps are about 1.5-2.5 cm long, yellow and black in colour with orange antennae. They appear similar to European wasps but have a higher proportion of black, a lower proportion of yellow and a thinner abdomen. Asian paper wasp nests have exposed cells.
European paper wasp and nest
Asian paper wasp
Photo: NRE Tas
Asian paper wasp nest
Photo: Canberra Nature Map