The minute you notice the presence of wasps near your house, your first instinct tells you that you need to act fast. Although you might not be sure of the type of wasp you are dealing with as yellowjackets and paper wasps are both yellow and black and look similar at first glance, you want to make sure to take care of the problem in either case. Paper wasps build umbrella-shaped nests upside down, so you are likely to find them hanging from the eaves of your house or other above-ground spots. Yellowjackets, on the other hand, build nests underground or in a void such as within a wall or a tree. These nests have many layers and large cells.
Of the two types, yellowjackets are widely considered to be more dangerous. These flying, stinging insects are a type of wasp that often becomes aggressive. Unlike bees, yellowjackets can string you more than once.
Yellowjackets are social wasps and congregate around a nest. If you see only a single nest on your property, you might be tempted to destroy the nest yourself. Here are some of the biggest ways that could go wrong:
- Spraying the nest: This might seem like the safest option since many sprays operate at a distance, but when disturbed, yellowjackets will swarm their attacker. Many wasp sprays require direct contact to be effective, which means that wasps hiding out of the spray’s range are able to swoop in and defend the nest unscathed.
- Combating yellowjackets while allergic to stings: Individuals with allergies to yellowjacket stings should avoid engaging with these insects at all costs to avoid a serious reaction to a potential sting. Contacting a professional exterminator to help with yellowjacket removal is the safest alternative.
- Treating the nest during the day: You can see better during the day, but so can the yellowjackets, and so daytime clashes with wasps are riskier. Yellowjacket removal for a nonexpert is not the best idea, but going in at night can reduce some of the danger. All of the yellowjackets are more likely to be in the nest at night. However, even treating the nest at night could be dangerous.
- Not implementing yellowjacket prevention practices: Depending on the season, yellowjackets are attracted to protein-based foods or sugary substances. Failing to clean up after barbeques and outdoor parties could result in a group of yellowjackets moving in and nesting nearby.
The safest and most effective method of yellowjacket removal is through an exterminator. With the proper tools, protective gear, and expertise, your local exterminator should be able to remove these insects quickly and effectively. Contact us today to learn more about our extermination services.