Red paper wasp

A single queen dominates the other females, sometimes using physical attacks that can turn into fatal battles.1

Colonies build many combs, often around 38 in total, and move brood into new combs as old ones are abandoned. This is thought to protect the colony from moth infestations.1

Male wasps follow two mating tactics: some defend territories, while smaller males patrol from tree to tree and sneak matings when they can.1

Around 56% of females drift to nearby nests, which helps protect the colony against predators. An egg has a 40% chance of being eaten by a predator before it reaches adulthood.1

Colonies are founded or abandoned at any time of year, so their development is not tied to the seasons.1