Have you ever seen a flying jewel in your backyard? Wasp with purple wings is one of the most beautiful insects you can spot flying around in the air. They are small, yet very attractive with their vivid color patterns that make them stand out among all other flying insects. If you are interested in learning more about these fascinating creatures, keep reading!
What are Wasps with Purple Wings?
Wasps with purple wings are a type of insect that belongs to the Hymenoptera order. They are generally known as paper wasps because of their tendency to build their nests from wood and paper fibers. The purple wings on these wasps are what sets them apart from other wasp species. They are known for their brightly colored wings, which can range from a deep, rich purple to a more subtle, lavender hue.
Where to Find Them?
These beautiful insects can be found all around the world, but they are most commonly spotted in warm, sunny weather. They tend to be attracted to bright colors and are frequently seen around flowers and other nectar-producing plants. You can also spot them nesting under roof eaves, in trees, or on other structures.
What Attracts Them to Your Backyard?
As mentioned earlier, wasps with purple wings are attracted to bright colors, so you can consider planting colorful flowers in your garden to attract them. They also love sweet, sugary substances like fruits, nectars, and honey, so having bird feeders filled with nectar or offering jam or other sweet substances could also bring them to your backyard.
Wasp with Purple Wings Facts
- Wasps with purple wings are also known as European paper wasps.
- These wasps live in small colonies consisting of a queen and her workers.
- They are not aggressive and only sting when provoked or threatened.
- Wasps with purple wings are excellent pollinators and help to maintain plant diversity in nature.
- Like other wasps, they are beneficial predators and help to control pest populations in gardens and agricultural settings.
Are They Dangerous?
Wasps with purple wings are not generally dangerous to humans unless they are provoked or threatened. Although they are not as aggressive as other wasp species, they will sting if they feel threatened. If you encounter a paper wasp, it is best to leave it alone and let it go about its business.
What to Do if You Get Stung by One?
If you do happen to get stung by a wasp with purple wings, there are a few things you can do to alleviate the pain and swelling. First, remove the stinger if it is still in your skin. Then, wash the affected area with soap and water and apply a cold compress or ice pack to the area for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Other Interesting Facts about Wasps with Purple Wings
- They are considered a pest in some areas because they can cause damage to crops.
- These wasps are known for their intricate nests, which are often built in the shape of an umbrella or comb.
- Wasps with purple wings have a lifespan of about one year and die off during the winter months.
- They are natural predators of other insects, including caterpillars, spiders, and flies.
Closing Thoughts
Wasp with purple wings is certainly an exquisite sight to see, and spotting them in your backyard or garden can be a delightful experience. These beautiful insects are not only attractive to look at, but they also play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance by pollinating plants and controlling pest populations. So, the next time you see a paper wasp with striking purple wings, appreciate their beauty and the benefits they offer!
FAQs
Q: Are Wasps with Purple Wings Dangerous?
Ans: Not generally. However, they can sting if they feel threatened or provoked.
Q: Can Wasps with Purple Wings Cause Damage to Crops?
Ans: Yes, they are considered pests in some areas because of their potential to damage crops.
Q: What Can I Do if I Get Stung by One?
Ans: Remove the stinger, wash the affected area with soap and water, and apply a cold compress to the area to alleviate pain and swelling.
Q: What Attracts Wasps with Purple Wings to My Backyard?
Ans: Bright colors and sweet, sugary substances like fruits, nectars, and honey attract wasps with purple wings to your backyard.
References
- https://www.thespruce.com/northern-paper-wasp-pest-profile-2656594
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/paper-wasps.htm
- https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/home/take-another-look-at-these-beautiful-pollinators/2021/05/17/39959b9e-b49f-11eb-a980-a60af976ed44_story.html
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/pests/insects-diseases-weeds/paper-wasp-facts/