The Kaibab paper wasp (Polistes kaibabensis) is a species of wasp in the family Vespidae, it is a medium-sized wasp typically measuring 13-25 mm (1.3-2.5 cm) in length. It is endemic and restricted to North Central Arizona, specifically the Kaibab Plateau near the Grand Canyon at high-elevation meadows and open forests in the Colorado Plateau region. Yellow to brown colouration and slender body, it is predatory on caterpillars for their larvae while adults feed on nectar and sugary secretions. Nests are made of paper being exposed combs suspended from vegetation.
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Is it venomous or poisonous?
Considered venomous. Public sources list it as such; we have not verified this individually. The note covers its whole family. Wasps and hornets; stings Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Polistes mexicanus — considered venomous
- Polistes canadensis — considered venomous
- Polistes cavapyta — considered venomous
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Vespidae
- Genus
- Polistes
- Species
- Polistes kaibabensis
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