Australian Paper Wasp vs Flame Skimmer
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Australian Paper Wasp | Flame Skimmer |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Polistes humilis | Libellula saturata |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Odonata |
| Family | Vespidae | Libellulidae |
| Size | 15-20 mm | 65-72 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Gardens | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Australian Paper Wasp
A common Australian paper wasp that builds small, open-celled papery nests under eaves, in shrubs, and other sheltered locations. It is a beneficial predator of caterpillars and other garden pests.
Did You Know?
Paper wasps chew wood fibres mixed with saliva to create their distinctive papery nests, a form of natural paper-making.
Flame Skimmer
A brilliantly red-orange dragonfly found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Males are unmistakable with their entirely flame-colored body and wings.
Did You Know?
Flame skimmers are frequently attracted to swimming pools and hot tubs, which they mistake for warm natural springs ideal for breeding.