What Kind of Wasps Do I Have?
Wasps and their relatives, hornets, and yellowjackets contain venomous stings that can be deadly to those who are allergic to them. Even if you are not allergic to wasps, they can be dangerous if you come too close to their nest.
They will come out, frequently in vast numbers, and sting any person or pet who is around. Some wasp species are quite aggressive, while others are more gentle. Some nuisance species, such as mud daubers, kill and eat other problem species, such as spiders.
Because wasps behave so differently, you must first identify the type of wasp you have before dealing with it. Here is a list of the most common wasp varieties found in North America:
Yellow Jackets
Bee-sized wasps known for their black and yellow markings. To protect their group, they live in colonies and make nests inside structures or on the ground.
Paper Wasps
Slightly larger than yellow jackets. They have brown or black bodies with yellow to red patterns. They build little nests near the shelter of buildings, with only one layer of comb for brood rearing. Like other wasp species, they will not sting unless they feel threatened.
Hornets
Black with bright yellow or white stripes that are more pronounced than those found on yellow jackets. They form colonies by chewing wood into a papery pulp and utilizing it to build walls.
Most nests are made on tall trees or woody plants. These wasps are extremely sociable and will not sting unless threatened or provoked.
Mud Daubers
Mud Daubers have a black body with bright yellow markings on the thorax and legs and a long, thin body that distinguishes them from other wasp species. They don't live in colonies or build nests with other wasps, unlike the other wasps on this list. Mud daubers use mud to construct little nests for themselves and their offspring.
Bees
While honey bees and wasps are often confused, they are not the same. Honey bees are an extremely important species to the environment, and we don't recommend removing them from your yard or property.
What Attracts Wasps to My Property?
If you have wasps in your yard, you're probably wondering why they've decided to bother you. While wasps pass through almost every yard on occasion, shelter, food leftovers, sugar, and flowers attract wasps and give them a reason to build their nest on your property. When wasps can’t find sweets in the trash or fruit to eat, they get nectar from flowers.
They're naturally drawn to bright, floral prints, so keep these to a minimum in your yard. Wasps, like all living things, require water. During the dry summer months, there usually isn't standing water, but take precautions to eliminate any locations where water may gather.
How to Prevent Wasp Nests
Wasps can be unpleasant and even dangerous pests, especially if you or a family member is allergic to them. While knowing how to get rid of a wasp's nest if you find one in or near your home is important, knowing how to prevent them from moving in is even better. Here are some ways you can deter wasps from your property:
- Remove Sources of Food from Around Your Porch
- Keep Doors and Windows Shut
- Place Wasp-Repelling Plants Around Your Home and Porch
- Check For Nests in Sheds, Garages, and Wall Cavities in Early Spring
- Seal Garbage Cans and Cover Compost Piles
- Pick up Trash on Your Property
- Cover Any Holes on the Ground to Prevent Wasps from Making a Home
Professional Wasp Extermination Service
Living in the Carolinas and Virginia comes with enjoying beautiful weather, breathtaking mountains, and plenty of outdoor activities. However, it also comes with the existence of flying pests that can populate your backyard. Fortunately, Rid-A-Big is here to help you fight against wasps, hornets, and other pests. If you suspect a wasp problem, contact us.