Wasps

Pest Status:

Name:

Vespa

Colour:

Brown with yellow markings on the abdomen and thin wings.

Wasps, sometimes known as paper wasps because of their nest material, are common pests. They can be inconvenient if they build in areas where you are frequently.

Facts, Identification, and Control

Here’s what you need to know about this flying nuisance.

Facts about Wasps

Keep these things in mind.

Where Do They Live?

Paper wasps are found throughout the US and are a standard fixture in residential yards. They build nests so familiar to the species in places where they can find shelter.

What Do They Eat?

They eat nectar and sometimes other insects for protein. They’re attracted to sweet fruits as well.

How Did I Get Wasps?

Wasps are generally everywhere. If they can find cracks in the house, they’ll come inside to escape the weather. If they find shelter in your shrubs or debris around your yard, they’ll hang there too.

How Serious Are Wasp Problems?

You may want to handle them immediately so you can enjoy your yard again.

Problem #1

They have a pretty severe sting and can become agitated if you accidentally disturb their nest. They’re frequently in shrubs and eaves.

Problem #2

They can prevent you from being able to enjoy your yard because of swarming. Also, explorers can sting when you least expect it.

Problem #3

It’s common to have an allergic reaction to the sting that goes beyond generalized pain. It’s essential to remove them before this happens. What does a wasp sting look like? Most wasp sting symptoms are an angry red welt. Ask your medical professional about how to treat symptoms of a wasp sting.

What Can I Do about Wasps?

SONY DSC

Contacting a professional is the best way to get rid of them. They’ll protect their nest fiercely, and you could sustain serious stings if you attempt removal yourself. They’re fast fliers, but there are some things you can do to make your home less appealing.

Signs of a Wasp Infestation?

You’ll be able to see them flying around, and you’ll notice the nest immediately. If you see one or two, follow it to find the nest right away.

Wasp Prevention and Control tips

Here are some things you can do.

Control tip #1

Cut away fast-growing bushes and trees to cut down on their shelter. They may not find your yard so appealing.

Control tip #2

Use wasp spray to take care of single wasps whenever you see one. This can help discourage the colony from staying.

Control tip #3

Keep food covered outside and make sure you seal your house well. This removes a common attraction.

Wasp Professional Pest Control

Again, it’s best to leave removal to the professionals. Otherwise, you could sustain serious injuries from stings and still not have the nest removed. A professional can take care of it safely and effectively. If you don’t know how to get rid of a wasp nest, a professional can do it for you.

FAQ’s:

Can wasps kill you?

A wasp sting results in swelling, reddening, itching and pain in the human body. Death due to anaphylaxis is relatively rare because only a small percentage of people have severe and fatal reactions due to wasp stings.

Do wasps really sting for no reason?

Wasps will not sting you without reason. When wasps attack, they almost always do so as a defence mechanism. When wasps sting, they do so because they are scared, and they even release a chemical that other wasps can detect.

What smell do wasps hate?

The smell of eucalyptus, mint, and wormwood is said to be avoided by wasps. So place a mint plant instead of a vase of flowers in the middle of the table, and dab some eucalyptus oil around the table.