When wasps decide to build a wasp nest in or around your home, they can go from frustrating to a nuisance or even a danger. Dealing with a wasp nest requires caution and the right approach to ensure your safety and that of your family.
But how do you get rid of a wasp nest? Can you simply spray it with wasp killer and knock it down? In this blog, we have put together our thoughts on the best way to deal with wasps and their nests.
What Are Wasps Anyways?
However, before we can dig into the different techniques for removing wasps, it is important to have grapes about what wasps truly are. What is their purpose in the food chain, and how do they build their paper-like nests that seem to pop up overnight?
Wasps are indeed insects and belong to the order Hymenoptera, which is related to bees and ants. They are known for their slender bodies, narrow waists, and distinctive color patterns. These patterns can often feature yellow and black markings, while some are simply brown.
While some wasp species are solitary, many are social insects that work and live in colonies much like honey bees. Some wasps sting, while others do not. These insects vary from predatory creatures to parasites. They typically have a petiole, and all of them have stingers.
Common Types Of Wasps In The US
- Paper Wasps: These are the most common wasps that you see in and around homes all across the US. They typically are brown, but sometimes have red or yellow markings and are fairly small. They build their nests out of tree bark and plant fibers, often around residential areas.
- Yellow Jackets: These black and yellow striped insects can be found all across the country but are especially prevalent in the southeastern United States. Yellow jackets cause around half of all wasp stings and will even bite and hold on to get a better grip before they sting.
- Mud Daubers: These mostly harmless pests have long thread wastes and are usually black. Because mud daubers are solitary, it is common to not even know they are in or around your home.
- Bald-Faced Hornet: These extra aggressive wasps have unique white markings on their face that look a bit like a skull. They can grow up to ¾ of an inch long and are social wasps that live in colonies.
How Do Wasps Build Their Nest?
Paper wasps are the most common form of wasps that you see in the wild. They are the wasps that build the paper-like nests around your home. While paper wasps aren't particularly aggressive, their proximity to residential areas poses the most threat.
Wasps construct their nests from a paper-like material made by chewing wood fibers mixed with saliva. These nests can be found in various locations, including underground burrows, tree branches, eaves, attics, and wall voids. The size and shape of the nest depend on the species and the stage of development of the colony. Yellow Jackets also use similar construction methods.
Over-The-Counter Ways To Get Rid Of Wasps
For minor infestations or if you prefer a DIY approach, several over-the-counter products are available to eliminate wasp nests. Aerosol insecticide sprays designed specifically for wasps can be effective when used correctly.
These sprays typically allow for long-range application, enabling you to reach nests located in high or hard-to-reach areas. It's essential to follow the instructions carefully and apply the spray during the evening or early morning when the majority of wasps are inside the nest.
After spraying a nest, be sure to monitor the activity around the nest. If there is little to no activity, you can knock down the nest with a broom, and discard it.
Holistic Approaches To Wasp Removal
If you prefer natural or holistic methods for pest control, several approaches can help deter or eliminate wasps without the use of chemical pesticides. One method is to create homemade traps using sweet bait such as fruit juice or sugar water.
Placing these traps near the nest can attract and capture foraging wasps, reducing the overall population over time. Additionally, planting certain herbs and flowers like mint, basil, and marigolds around your home can help repel wasps due to their strong scents.
Engaging With A Pest Control Company
When faced with a large or persistent wasp infestation, or if you're uncomfortable handling pesticides yourself, it's wise to enlist the help of a professional pest control company like Rid-A-Bug. Trained technicians have the expertise, equipment, and safety protocols necessary to safely and effectively remove wasp nests from your property.
They can also conduct a thorough inspection to identify potential entry points and recommend preventative measures to minimize future infestations. More importantly, you can relax knowing that you do not have to worry about dealing with the dangers associated with wasps. This is especially important if you have small children or deal with allergies to wasp stings.
Eco-Friendly Pest Control And Integrated Pest Management
Furthermore, methods such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and other eco-friendly approaches focus on prevention, using a combination of techniques such as habitat modification, exclusion, and biological controls to manage pests.
Dealing with wasp nests is not a task to be taken lightly. It requires knowledge, caution, and the right tools to get the job done. By understanding the behavior of wasps, utilizing appropriate removal methods, and considering eco-friendly pest control options, you can effectively eliminate wasp nests and prevent future infestations.
Have A Wasp Infestation? Call Rid-A-Bug Today!
Don't let a wasp nest ruin your peace of mind or put your family at risk. Rid-A-Bug is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians can quickly and safely remove wasp nests from your property using environmentally friendly methods. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a wasp-free home.