Common paper wasps are social insects, that are common around the outside of homes and in gardens. These slender wasps have long thin wings and are tan with darker bands and some yellow markings on the face. Their paper nests are often seen hanging by a short stalk from eaves, pergola or shrubbery. Although they can be pests because of their readiness to sting, paper wasps can also be beneficial in that they are predators of some pest caterpillars.