Georgia is home to many different types of wasps, including paper wasps, mud daubers, yellow jackets, and bald-faced hornets.
Whether you live there or are simply visiting the area, understanding the various types of wasps in Georgia can help you know how to keep yourself safe.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of wasps in Georgia that can be found in the area and provide tips for avoiding wasp stings.
Let’s get to the topic of the day!
1. Norton’s Giant Ichneumon Wasp
To start off, our list of the different types of wasps in Georgia is Norton’s Giant Ichneumon Wasp. This is an impressive sight to behold in the skies of Georgia.
It is one of the largest wasps in the world, with a wingspan of up to 3 inches and a body length of up to 2.5 inches.
It is a solitary wasp and feeds on wood-boring beetle larvae, which it finds by drilling into the wood with its long ovipositor.
Its black and yellow coloration is an effective warning signal to predators.
Norton’s Giant Ichneumon Wasp can be found in woods throughout the state from June through August.
2. Guinea Paper Wasp
The Guinea Paper Wasp (Polistes exclamans) is a wasp species commonly found in the state of Georgia.
It is a medium-sized wasp with a black and yellow body and reddish-orange legs.
The wings of the Guinea Paper Wasp are transparent, and its head has an orange spot in the center.
This wasp species builds nests made of paper and is usually attached to objects such as trees, walls, or roofs.
These nests are used to protect the eggs that the female wasps will lay, which will eventually hatch into larvae.
It feeds mainly on nectar but also preys on other insects, like caterpillars.
The Guinea Paper Wasp can be quite aggressive when disturbed and is not recommended for anyone unfamiliar with wasp behavior.
3. Paper Wasp
Paper wasps are found throughout Georgia and can range in size from medium to large.
They are easily identifiable due to their distinctive long and slender bodies with yellow, black, and red coloring.
They build their nests in sheltered locations such as under eaves and porches.
Paper wasps, on our list of the different types of wasps in Georgia, are predatory and feed on nectar, caterpillars, and other soft-bodied insects.
Although they are social insects and will defend their nests if threatened, paper wasps are generally not aggressive toward humans unless disturbed or threatened.
To control paper wasps, it is important to find and remove the nest if possible. If this is not possible, using insecticides may be necessary.
4. Eastern Cicada-Killer Wasp
The Eastern Cicada-Killer Wasp (Sphecius speciosus)is a large and robust wasp, ranging in size from 1-2 inches in length.
This species is found throughout Georgia, as well as in other areas of the southeastern United States.
The adults have reddish-brown wings and a black body with yellow markings.
The Eastern Cicada-Killer Wasp feeds on cicadas and other large insects, paralyzing them with its venom and then dragging them to its underground burrow to feed its young.
These wasps are relatively docile and rarely sting humans.
However, they should still be handled with care. These wasps can sometimes be found in gardens and yards, where they are often mistaken for bees.
They are solitary wasps, meaning they do not form colonies or socialize with other wasps, and they typically fly during the day.
Eastern Cicada-Killer Wasps are not only types of wasps in Georgia but also an important part of the ecosystem in Georgia.
They provide food for various animals and help keep insect populations in check.
5. Potter Wasp
The Potter Wasp is a species of mason wasp found throughout the state of Georgia.
It is distinguished by its dark metallic green coloring and long antennae, which can be up to twice the length of its body.
The Potter Wasp, one of the various types of wasps in Georgia, is typically seen hovering near flowers and feeding on nectar.
It is also an excellent pollinator and is known to visit numerous types of plants throughout the season.
During the summer months, this wasp builds nests from clay or mud, forming a small pot-like structure attached to a twig or stem.
Inside the nest are several cells, each containing an individual egg.
Once hatched, the larvae will feed on other insects, such as caterpillars, aphids, and spiders, before emerging as an adult.
This species is a solitary wasp, meaning it does not live in colonies and does not cause any harm to humans.
6. Red Paper Wasp
The Red Paper Wasp (Polistes spp.) is a type of wasp that can be found in Georgia.
These wasps are reddish-orange in color and usually measure between 16 to 20 mm in length.
They have long, slender abdomens and are identified by their characteristic yellow-red stripes and orange patches.
These wasps typically make their nests near people’s homes, often under the eaves of houses or in other protected areas.
Red Paper Wasps build small paper nests with hexagonal cells suspended from a single stalk.
These insects can benefit gardens by feeding on many garden pests, such as caterpillars. However, the wasps may become aggressive and sting if their nests are disturbed.
For this reason, it is important to keep an eye out for these particular types of wasps in Georgia and take necessary precautions to protect oneself.
7. Red-and-Black Mason Wasp
The Red-and-black Mason Wasp (Pachodynerus erynnis) is a common species of wasp found in Georgia and other parts of the United States.
These wasps are small to medium in size, usually reaching lengths of 0.3 inches (7 mm). They are usually black with reddish or orange marks on their bodies.
The Red-and-black Mason Wasp is a solitary species of wasp that feeds on nectar and pollen.
They are often seen hovering around flowers in search of food. They are types of wasps in Georgia that also feed on other insects, such as caterpillars and aphids.
The Red-and-black Mason Wasps build mud nests on the sides of houses and other structures and in hollow trees and stumps. They are beneficial insects since they help control insect pests.
8. Scoliid Wasp
The Scoliid Wasp is one of the most common types of wasps in Georgia. It belongs to the family Scoliidae and is found throughout the southeastern United States.
The body of the Scoliid Wasp is yellow with black stripes, giving it an overall striped appearance. Its wings are transparent, allowing it to fly swiftly and easily.
The Scoliid Wasp has a long abdomen that reaches up to two inches in length, making it a relatively large species of wasp. Its antennae are curved, and it has two pairs of wings.
The larvae of this species feed on grasshoppers, crickets, and other insects. It can be found flying around gardens and fields in search of food.
9. Sand Wasp
Sand Wasps, also known as Bembicid Wasps, are a genus of insects that make their homes in sandy soils.
These solitary wasps are found in many different parts of the world and comprise a large portion of the wasp family.
They range in size from small to large and come in various colors, including black, brown, yellow, and white.
Sand Wasps are types of wasps in Georgia that have long antennae, cylindrical bodies, and small heads.
They feed primarily on nectar and pollen but consume other food sources such as aphids, beetles, caterpillars, and flies.
In addition to being predatory, Sand Wasps are excellent pollinators and can help improve the biodiversity of local ecosystems.
Despite their seemingly intimidating appearance, these creatures are harmless and should be left alone if encountered.
10. Wool Sower Gall Wasp
Talking of the numerous types of wasps in Georgia, the Wool Sower Gall Wasp (Amphibolips quercusinanis) is a type found there and in other areas in the eastern United States.
It is a solitary species and only reproduces once a year. The adult female wasps lay eggs on the leaves of oak trees, which then form a gall – a bumpy, woody growth on the tree’s leaves.
As the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the inside of the gall and eventually emerge as adult wasps.
These wasps are not known to be aggressive and do not threaten humans.
11. Ringed Paper Wasp
The Ringed Paper Wasp is a species of wasp found in the southeastern United States, including Georgia.
This type of wasp is considered a more common species in the region and can be identified by its striking yellow-and-black banded coloration.
The Ringed Paper Wasp typically builds their nests in tree hollows, under eaves or rocks, and inside attics or wall cavities.
These wasps are known for their aggressive defensive behaviors if their nests are disturbed, so it is important to avoid disturbing them if possible.
This wasp species feeds on nectar, aphids, and other insects, making them beneficial to the environment as natural pest controllers.
They are also pollinators and play an important role in the reproduction of plants.
Despite their aggressive tendencies, they are not known to sting humans unless they feel threatened.
If you come across one of these types of wasps in Georgia, the best course of action is to slowly back away and leave it alone.
12. Short-Tailed Ichneumon Wasp
The short-tailed ichneumon wasp (Ophion spp.) is a large and impressive species of wasp that can be found in Georgia.
The wasps range in size from about 3/4 inch to almost two inches in length and have a yellowish-brown coloration with black markings on the thorax.
Compared to other types of wasps in Georgia, their wings are clear with a slight yellow tint.
Furthermore, the females have a long, thin abdomen, while the males have a shorter, more robust one.
The females also have a curved ovipositor at the tip of the abdomen, which is used for laying eggs in woody plants.
They feed mainly on caterpillars, which they paralyze using their sting and then lay their eggs inside.
These types of wasps in Georgia do not bother humans and are not considered aggressive.
13. Spider Wasp
Spider Wasps belong to the family Auplopodidae and are native to Georgia. These wasps are large, black and yellow in color, and have distinctive long legs.
They often hover around flowers and spider webs, looking for prey like spiders, insects, or other arthropods.
The female spider wasp will paralyze its prey by stinging it and then drag it back to its burrow.
The prey is then placed into a cell in the burrow, along with an egg. The larva will feed on the paralyzed prey until it matures and pupates.
Spider wasps are important predators of many insect species, helping keep the environment balanced.
14. Squarehead Wasp
Squarehead Wasps is a genus of insects from the family Ectemnius, which is native to Georgia.
These wasps are black and yellow striped, with an overall length of 8-20mm.
They usually live in wooded areas, as well as in gardens and around human habitation.
Squarehead Wasps are also called “Sand Wasps” because they nest in sandy soil.
The female wasps dig burrows in the ground and lay eggs in them, which hatch after a few weeks into larvae that feed on wood-boring insects.
The adult wasps feed on nectar and other plant matter.
Of the several types of wasps in Georgia, they can benefit gardens, as they help control pests’ populations.
However, they can also become pests if their numbers become too large.
15. Thread-Waisted Wasp
Thread-waisted wasps, or Eremnophila aureonotata, are a species of wasps native to Georgia.
They are small, black, and yellow wasps that get their name from their thin, threadlike waist.
These wasps can be seen flying around wooded areas during the summer months.
Thread-waisted wasps feed on other insects, such as caterpillars, aphids, and other small insects.
They are also considered beneficial since they help control pest populations.
Thread-waisted wasps build small mud nests in trees, walls, and sheltered places.
Despite being one of the types of wasps in Georgia, they are typically not aggressive and will not sting unless provoked.
If you happen to come across one of these wasps, it is best to leave it alone.
16. Weevil Wasp
On this list of types of wasps in Georgia, we have the Weevil Wasps, also known as Spider Wasps, belonging to the Cerceris genus of wasps.
They are a solitary species and can be found throughout Georgia.
These wasps are medium-sized with black bodies, orange wings, and reddish-brown legs.
They feed on spiders and other small insects, including caterpillars and aphids.
Weevil wasps are beneficial to gardeners as they help to control pest populations.
These wasps create nests in the ground that consist of cells where they lay their eggs.
The larvae then feed on the host insects before emerging as adults. As adults, these wasps can be seen hovering over their nests in search of prey.
Moreover, Weevil Wasps are an important part of the ecosystem in Georgia and should be protected.
They help to maintain balance in the environment and should not be harmed if encountered.
If you happen to come across one of these wasps in your garden, it is best to observe it from a distance and leave it alone.
17. Blue-Winged Wasp
The Blue-winged Wasp, also known as Scolia dubia, is a solitary wasp species found in Georgia.
These wasps are recognizable by their black and yellow color pattern and a pair of blue wings with black spots. They typically live in woodlands, meadows, and gardens.
Blue-winged Wasps build nests in sandy soil by digging a hole and making a mud-like mixture to plug the entrance.
They feed on nectar, pollen, and small insects such as caterpillars and aphids. Additionally, they are active during the day, and their sting is considered to be harmless.
These Blue-winged Wasps play an important role in the environment by helping control pest populations and pollinate flowers.
Therefore, it is important to preserve their habitats and discourage the use of insecticides that could harm them.
By protecting this species, we can ensure that they remain a part of Georgia’s diverse ecosystem.
18. Horntail Wasp
The Horntail Wasp is a species of wasp that is native to Georgia. These wasps have long and thin bodies and can range in size from 5 to 8 millimeters in length.
They are typically black in color with yellowish-brown stripes on their abdomen.
The wings of these types of wasps in Georgia are also yellowish-brown, and the antennae are orange.
The Horntail Wasp is an important predator of wood-boring beetles and other wood-boring insects in Georgia.
These wasps will use their long, thin abdomens to reach deep into tree bark and wood to capture their prey.
They also feed on nectar from flowers. This wasp species does not sting humans and is considered beneficial to have around as it helps keep insect populations in check.
19. Metric Paper Wasp
The metric paper wasp is one of the most common types of wasps in Georgia. These wasps are known for their large black bodies and red and yellow stripes on their abdomens.
They can be found in various habitats, such as woodlands, meadows, and suburban gardens.
The metric paper wasp builds its nests in sheltered places like under eaves and behind shutters.
The nests of these wasps are made from paper-like material, which they mix with saliva to form a hardened structure.
Metric paper wasps are solitary creatures and will often build individual nests.
Moving on, they feed mainly on small insects, caterpillars, and spiders. Their stings can be painful but are usually not lethal to humans.
Although these wasps may look intimidating, they are actually quite beneficial to have around as they help keep down the population of other pests like caterpillars and mosquitoes.
20. Great Golden Digger Wasp
The Great Golden Digger Wasp is a species of wasp found throughout Georgia.
They have a golden yellow color with black markings and measure between 1 and 1.2 inches in length.
The female wasps build burrows in the ground, which they use to lay their eggs. Meanwhile, the larvae feed on insects and other small invertebrates found in the soil.
These types of wasps in Georgia are important predators and help keep insect populations in check.
While they are generally not aggressive, they will sting if disturbed or threatened.
21. Double-Banded Scoliid Wasp
The double-banded scoliid wasp (Scolia bicincta) is a species of wasp found in Georgia and other parts of the southeastern United States.
The wasp typically has two black bands on its thorax and measures about 3⁄4” long.
They are solitary and feed on nectar from flowers and feed larvae on larvae of ground-dwelling insects.
These wasp species are rarely seen as they spend most of their time below the surface, but they can be spotted near flowers in wooded areas or meadows in late spring.
They benefit gardens because they feed on harmful grubs and other insect pests. Let’s continue as more types of wasps in Georgia are coming up!
22. Ichneumon Wasp
If you want to know more about the various types of wasps in Georgia, the Ichneumon Wasp – A. wiltii (Acrotaphus wiltii) is one of them.
This small insect is usually brown or black with yellow markings, and it has a long abdomen that can measure up to 1 inch in length.
The Ichneumon Wasp is an important pollinator and predator of many other insects, which makes it beneficial to the environment.
It is also known for its parasitic behavior, where it lays eggs inside the bodies of other insects, such as beetles and moths.
This type of wasp is found mainly in forests, meadows, and grasslands throughout Georgia but also in urban areas.
While it rarely threatens humans, it can be quite a nuisance when invading homes or gardens. It is important to take steps to keep them away from your property if you notice them around.
23. Leucospid Wasp
The Leucospid Wasp is native to Georgia and can be found throughout the southeastern United States.
They are small wasps that measure 1/4 inch in length and are black with white markings on the thorax and wings.
These wasps are parasitic and feed on other insects, including moths, beetles, and flies.
Female Leucospid Wasps will lay eggs inside other insects, which the larvae will feed on as they develop.
This type of wasp can be seen in gardens, parks, and other outdoor areas. To control their numbers, pest control measures should be taken.
24. Hyperparasitic Wasp
The Hyperparasitic Wasp is one of the types of wasps in Georgia. It is characterized by its small size and bright yellow and black markings.
This species has a relatively short lifespan and is rarely seen due to its small size.
The Hyperparasitic Wasp primarily feeds on other wasps and insects, such as ants and bees. It has also been observed feeding on spiders and larvae.
The Hyperparasitic Wasp can be found in various habitats throughout the state, including forests, open fields, and even urban areas.
It is important to note that this species should not be handled, as it can deliver a painful sting. In the case of an attack, seek medical attention immediately.
By understanding the habits of this species, people can better protect themselves from potential encounters with these wasps in Georgia.
25. Five-Banded Thynnid Wasp
The five-banded thynnid wasp is a large, black, and yellow species found in Georgia.
This wasp has a body length of about 1.25 inches (3.2 cm), with five black bands and bright yellow markings on its abdomen.
This species is part of the Thynnidae family and is native to the southern US. They are predators and eat caterpillars, spiders, and other insects.
They build nests from small pieces of wood that they chew into a pulp and then form a paper-like material to construct their nests.
This species can be found in Georgia’s gardens, meadows, and woods.
26. Four-Toothed Mason Wasp
The four-toothed mason wasp (Monobia quadridens) is a species of solitary wasp that can be found throughout Georgia.
The four-toothed mason wasp is typically light brown with yellow stripes on its abdomen and black bands across its body and wings.
This species, of the various types of wasps in Georgia, is quite small, measuring only about a half-inch in length.
Going further, it is known for using mud to construct its nests, which are attached to walls and ceilings and can be found near doorways and windows.
The four-toothed mason wasp preys on spiders, beetle larvae, and other insects, and it uses venom to immobilize its prey before returning it to its nest.
They are generally considered beneficial insects, as they help control pest populations in gardens and crops.
27. Great Black Wasp
The Great Black Wasp is a large, common species of wasp found in many areas of Georgia.
These black and yellow-striped wasps are solitary and non-aggressive, with long legs and wings that extend beyond the body.
They are most commonly found in gardens, meadows, and fields where their preferred prey, crickets and grasshoppers, can be found.
They are also fond of the sugary food sources, such as nectar and pollen, produced by flowers.
The females build nests in the ground or sheltered places, such as walls and crevices, to lay their eggs.
The Great Black Wasp, which is also one of the types of wasps in Georgia, plays an important role in controlling pest populations in Georgia’s environment.
Their long legs and powerful jaws make them efficient predators, preying on harmful insects that damage crops and gardens.
They also aid in pollination by collecting nectar from flowers, which helps promote the growth of fruits and vegetables.
Their presence is important for maintaining a balanced ecosystem in Georgia’s diverse landscape.
28. Giant Ichneumon Wasp
The Giant Ichneumon Wasp is a species of large, parasitic type of wasps in Georgia.
These fascinating creatures are easily identified by their large size and long ovipositors, which they use to drill into tree trunks to lay their eggs.
The larvae of these wasps feed on the larvae of other insects, such as wood-boring beetles.
This species has a unique appearance and can be distinguished from other types of wasps by its long, thin abdomen, long antennae, and bright yellow and black coloration.
The Giant Ichneumon Wasp is an important predator of other pests, helping to keep populations in check and prevent damage to Georgia’s forests.
Further, it is an important part of the food chain, providing sustenance for birds, mammals, and other predators.
This species is not considered to be a threat to humans and is rarely seen in contact with humans.
29. European Paper Wasp
The European paper wasp is also present on our list of the types of wasps in Georgia.
It is an invasive species that has been introduced to the United States and is commonly found in Georgia.
These wasps are easily identified by their bright yellow and black markings and thin bodies.
They build large, intricate nests made of a paper-like material that can be found in sheltered areas like eaves or window frames.
Unlike other wasps in the region, the European paper wasp is not aggressive and rarely stings.
These wasps feed on caterpillars, spiders, flies, and other insects and often visit flowers for their sweet nectar.
As they are beneficial pollinators, the European paper wasp should be left alone unless their nests become dangerous or a large population of them is present.
In such cases, it’s best to contact a pest control expert to remove the nest and deter future infestations safely.
30. Cuckoo Wasp
Cuckoo Wasps are also one of the most common types of wasps in Georgia.
These wasps are typically black and yellow in color and have narrow waists. They are relatively small, ranging from 3 to 20 millimeters in length.
Cuckoo wasps feed on other insects, such as caterpillars, aphids, and scale insects, which helps to keep populations of these pests under control.
These wasps can also be seen gathering nectar and pollen from flowers.
Cuckoo wasps are beneficial to humans and plants, as they help keep garden pests in check and provide food for other animals.
The most common cuckoo wasp found in Georgia is the ruby-tailed wasp, a small, red-tailed wasp with a black head and yellow body.
Other species include the blue-tailed wasp and the metallic cuckoo wasp.
Despite their small size, these wasps can still be intimidating if disturbed or handled incorrectly. It’s important to be aware of their presence and take proper precautions if needed.
31. Large Four-Spotted Scoliid Wasp
The large four-spotted scoliid wasp is a species of wasp found in Georgia. They have large black bodies with four distinct white spots.
These wasps usually have wings that are held over their body in a tent-like fashion. The larvae of these wasps feed on beetle grubs that live underground.
Adult wasps can be seen feeding on nectar and other plant fluids. They are types of wasps in Georgia that can also be found on flowers or around decaying wood or trees.
The large four-spotted scoliid wasp is an important species in the natural ecosystems of Georgia and should be protected.
32. Common Thread-Waisted Wasp
The Common Thread-waisted Wasp (Ammophila procera) is a wasp native to the southeastern United States, including Georgia.
This wasp is commonly found in sandy soils, such as dunes and sandy beaches. They build their nests in open areas like dunes or bare soil where they can get good sun exposure.
This wasp can be identified by its yellowish-white body and black markings, which contrast nicely against its tan-colored wings.
Of the types of wasps in Georgia, its long, slender waist is also distinctive.
These wasps are solitary insects and will not sting unless provoked or disturbed. They are important pollinators and can help maintain healthy habitats in Georgia.
33. Noble Scoliid Wasp
The Noble Scoliid Wasp (Scolia noblitata) is a large species of wasp that can be found in Georgia and other parts of the southeastern United States.
They are generally black in color with yellowish markings on their body, antennae, and legs.
They have a wide thorax and narrow abdomen. The adult wasps are usually about an inch long and very active during the day.
The Noble Scoliid Wasp is a ground-nesting species that prefers to nest in the soil or sandy soils.
Their diet consists mostly of small insects like caterpillars and aphids, as well as nectar and pollen.
They also provide an important pollinating service to flowers and plants in their area.
Although they are generally not considered a threat to humans, it is important to note that they can sting if provoked.
34. Mutillid Wasp
The Mutillid Wasp, also known as the velvet ant, is a species of wasp that can be found in Georgia.
These wasps are very small and usually black in color, with some varieties featuring a bright red or yellow band across their backs.
They have long antennae and slender bodies, making them easily identifiable.
The Mutillid Wasp, one of the types of wasps in Georgia, has a painful sting, so it is best to avoid them if possible.
These wasps feed on a variety of insects, including caterpillars and beetles. The female of the species is wingless, but the males have wings.
Both male and female Mutillid Wasps have large eyes, which help them to hunt for prey.
This wasp species is generally considered harmless to humans, although their sting can be painful.
35. Northern Paper Wasp
The Northern Paper Wasp (Polistes fuscatus) is one of the many types of wasps in Georgia.
This wasp species can be identified by its reddish-brown body with yellow markings.
These wasps are medium-sized, measuring about 1 inch long, and are usually found living in colonies in the eaves or other sheltered areas of buildings.
They construct their nests using chewed plant material and saliva, forming a papery pulp to build a layered nest.
Northern paper wasps feed on other insects and nectar from flowers. When threatened, these wasps will sting to defend their nests.
While they may seem intimidating, they are generally non-aggressive and won’t sting unless provoked.
To avoid getting stung by a Northern Paper Wasp, it is important to stay away from their nests.
If a nest needs to be removed, it should be done carefully and at night when the wasps are less active.
36. Common Paper Wasp
The Common Paper Wasp is not left out of this list of the most common types of wasps in Georgia.
It is a social wasp, meaning they live and work together in large colonies.
These wasps usually build their nests in sheltered areas such as under roofs and eaves or in trees, shrubs, and bushes.
Common Paper Wasps are typically yellow and black, with a length of about 0.8 inches. They have distinctive bodies and long, slender legs.
Common Paper Wasps feed mainly on other insects but are also known to scavenge for sugary foods such as soft fruits, nectar, and sap.
These wasps are considered beneficial to humans because they feed on pests such as caterpillars and aphids that could otherwise damage plants and crops.
They also pollinate flowers while searching for food. Although they are usually not aggressive, they may sting if disturbed or provoked.
37. Organ-Pipe Mud-Dauber Wasp
The Organ-Pipe Mud-Dauber Wasp (Trypoxylon politum) is a type of wasp found in Georgia.
This species is characterized by its large size and long cylindrical nests resembling organ pipes.
These solitary wasps are most active during the summer months and feed on spiders that they hunt for in the area.
Their nests are constructed from mud and are typically found on rocks, walls, and other hard surfaces.
Although they occasionally attack humans if provoked, they do not generally cause any harm.
We’ll draw the curtains on this list of the several types of wasps in Georgia!
Conclusion
Georgia is home to various wasps, some of which are beneficial to the environment and others that can be a nuisance.
Above, we discussed the different types of wasps in Georgia, their characteristics, and how to identify them.
Whether you’re a bug enthusiast or want to know more about the insect life around you, this post provides a comprehensive overview of the most common types of wasps in Georgia, the Peach State. Good luck with your newfound knowledge!
