Property owners may face problems when stinging insects create nests on their properties. Despite having some beneficial role in our ecosystem, bees, wasps, and other types may aggressively defend themselves when feeling threatened. Experts classify all of these types in the order Hymenoptera.
Throughout the U.S., more than 40 various species of wasps exist. In this region of Texas, some of the most commonly encountered wasp species include paper wasps, yellow jackets, and cicada killers.
Do wasps and hornets pollinate? Unlike bees with hairy bodies that accumulate lots of pollen, most wasp species have a smooth body style that is incapable of carrying much pollen. However, wasps consume nectar and pollinate to a much lesser extent.
Although most prevalent in Eastern Texas, cicada killers now emerge during this region's warmest months of the year. With bodies that may extend up to 1.5 inches in length, cicada killers are much less likely to behave aggressively toward people than paper wasps or yellow jackets.
Are you struggling with how to get rid of wasps in backyard areas? An experienced Del Rio pest control company has a staff that receives proper training regarding the best products for different applications and will make informed recommendations about how to keep wasps from coming back.
How To Identify A Wasp Nest?
What does a wasp nest look like? Paper wasps often build “umbrella” shaped nests beneath eaves or on other features that provide some shelter, including sheds, garages, or large shrubs. The diameter of a paper wasp nest often exceeds six inches. Cicada Killers generally create underground nests.
Yellow jackets may build aerial or underground nests. The above-ground structures have a “papery” external appearance and one hole for entry.
How do wasps make nests? Paper wasps construct nests from moistening wood fibers and have hexagon-like interior cells. Yellow jackets form nests from chewed organic materials and contain horizontal “combs.” Female cicada killers excavate drier areas of soil and form underground nests that might have tunnels extending outward.
All The Issues Wasps Can Create Around Your Property
Wasps will deliver a painful and potentially dangerous sting that may result in risks to overall human health and safety.
Some of the issues for consideration include:
- When a wasp stings a human, it will typically experience pain and possibly red and swollen skin.
- Some individuals experience significant allergic reactions from a wasp’s venom.
- About 5% of individuals may suffer an anaphylactic reaction when stung multiple times.
- Keep in mind that wasps might attack in groups.
In some cases, an individual will unexpectedly step on or into an underground wasp nest when mowing the lawn or participating in other outdoor activities.
Factors That Attract Wasps To Build Nests On Your Property
Are you wondering what attracts wasps to certain properties? As with most pests, wasps prefer residing in areas that allow access to food sources such as insects, plant nectar, or honeydew. Wasps also enjoy many of the foods that humans consume; therefore, cleaning up thoroughly following picnics and barbeques is strongly encouraged.
Holes or burrows tend to draw the wasps that build underground nests. Filling these voids with soil or vegetation will reduce the likelihood of encountering underground nests.
The Safe And Effective Way To Remove A Wasp Nest
Wasps are creatures that may pose health risks, particularly among those with allergies or people who abruptly encounter a nest and face a swarm of angry pests. Avoid trying do-it-yourself stinging insect control measures that may place you in harm’s way. The best course of action involves speaking with a licensed pest controller who will explain your treatment options.
Did you know that the pest control professionals with Gold Star Exterminators have years of experience assisting local customers struggling with wasps and other potentially harmful stinging insects? We will deploy a specialist to the property who will assess the nature and extent of the problem and present you with the best available treatment options.