What is a mahogany wasp?

The mahogany wasp is a brownish-black insect with red markings. It is one of more than 200 worldwide species of "paper wasps," which get their name from the paper-like material they use to build their nests.

The mahogany wasp is one of at least 22 paper wasps found throughout the United States. Their comb nests are found hanging in a variety of environments, from the twigs and branches of shrubs and trees to porch ceilings and the tops of window and door frames. These semisocial wasps live in small colonies and spend their time feeding on caterpillars, flies, other smaller insects and nectar.