Paper Wasps
Paper wasps such as these Apachas spp.
are often mislabeled as yellowjackets.
When compared to yellowjackets, paper wasps generally have a much larger body. They are much longer,
with long spindly legs and a constricted area between
their thorax and abdomen,
commonly referred to as a "thread-waist". In nature these wasps are
generally considered as beneficial because they prey upon other insects and spiders which can be
pests to humans. However, they find human structures to be irresistible 
nesting sites. They often build their upside-down,
umbrella-shaped, gray, paper nests under eaves (hence the name "paper wasp"), decks and other sheltered areas such as
inside meter boxes. They will sting aggressively in defense of their nests and can therefore be important pests around homes.
Controlling paper wasps is very difficult. Unlike yellowjackets which will stay in the same nest from spring through fall, paper wasps will readily construct new nests if their old nests are disturbed or destroyed. Also they will migrate to new locations and build new nests as their population grows. The only way to assure that your house is free from paper wasps is to regularly inspect around your home, under eaves, in sheds etcetera and destroy nests as you find them. The wasps may be killed using wasp and hornet spray which can be purchased in any garden center and many department stores. Always be sure that you follow the label directions exactly. It is best to locate nests ahead of time and spray the wasps after dark. All the wasps will be clinging to the nest at that time and are unlikely to attack since they can't see at night. Knock the nest down with a broom or similar device only after you are absolutely sure that the resident wasps are dead and gone. The safest method of control is to hire a competent, certified, and licensed pest control operator to perform this task for you.
Remember that new wasps may move in and build nests at any time during the warm time of the year. Always use caution when working around areas that may provide the sort of protection that attracts nesting paper wasps.
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