Wasp Identification & Prevention

What Are Wasps?

Wasps are flying insects in the order Hymenoptera and suborder Apocrita. Wasps have narrow waists, can fly, and have a stinger that does not detach when used. That means, unlike bees, wasps can sting as many times as they want without dying.

We have many different wasp varieties that can give homeowners grief in our area. We have social wasps like hornets and solitary wasps like the tarantula hawk. We also have wasp species that build aerial nests (like paper wasps) and wasps that nest in the ground or other hollow spaces (like yellow jackets).

Are Wasps Dangerous?

Wasps can absolutely be dangerous. They pack painful stings, and while a single sting can't normally put you in danger unless you have an allergy to insect venom, wasps tend to sting more than once. Social wasps like hornets will swarm in massive numbers to defend their nests, sometimes giving chase and stinging hundreds of times.

Wasp nests aren't always easy to spot, especially ground-nesting species like yellow jackets. Sometimes when you're doing yard work or exterior work on your home, you can disturb invisible wasp nests without even realizing it, setting off an aggressive and totally unexpected attack.

How to Get Rid of Wasps?

Getting rid of wasps can be a tricky and potentially dangerous task, so it's important to approach it with caution. 

Here are some steps to help you safely and effectively get rid of wasps:

• Identify the wasp species.
• Locate the nest.
• Wear protective clothing.
• Use a commercial wasp spray.
• DIY wasp traps.
• Remove food sources.
• Seal entry points.
• Consider natural repellents.
• Hire a professional if unsure.

Wasps can nest anywhere, but there could be some things you're doing to attract them. For example, if you're leaving garbage cans uncovered, non-picky wasp varieties will come buzzing around looking for food. Anything from leaving sugary drinks sitting out to planting certain types of flowers to even hanging a hummingbird feeder can attract these bugs.

Where Will I Find Wasps?

Where you'll find wasps depends on the type of wasp, whether it's aerial or ground-dwelling. Aerial wasps will hang their nests anywhere convenient, including tree branches, shrubs, awnings, porch ceilings, and even the overhangs around your house. Ground-nesting wasps set up shop in existing excavations like those found in hollowed-out logs or gopher holes. These opportunistic wasps don't normally dig their own holes – they just pitch camp wherever they can.