A Guide to Identifying Arkansas Wasps in Your Backyard

Posted by Matthew Rathbone on April 22, 2023 · 2 mins read

Are you tired of seeing wasps buzzing around your backyard in Arkansas and not knowing what kind they are? Don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll go over the different types of wasps you might encounter in your backyard and how to identify them.

DIY Wasp removal recommendations

For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are a common type of wasp found in Arkansas. They have long, slender bodies and are usually brown or black with yellow markings on their bodies. Paper wasps build their nests out of a papery substance that they create by chewing up wood and mixing it with saliva.

If you see a paper wasp nest in your backyard, be careful not to disturb it. Paper wasps can sting if they feel threatened, and their stings can be quite painful.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are another type of wasp that you might see in your backyard in Arkansas. They are smaller than paper wasps and have bright yellow and black stripes on their bodies.

Yellow jackets are known for being aggressive and will sting if they feel threatened. If you see a yellow jacket nest in your backyard, it’s best to call a professional to remove it.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are a type of solitary wasp that build their nests out of mud. They are usually black or metallic blue in color and have a long, narrow waist.

Unlike paper wasps and yellow jackets, mud daubers are not aggressive and rarely sting humans. If you see a mud dauber nest in your backyard, you can safely leave it alone.

Cicada Killers

Cicada killers are a large type of wasp that prey on cicadas. They are usually black or brown with yellow markings and can be up to two inches long.

Despite their intimidating size, cicada killers are not aggressive and rarely sting humans. If you see a cicada killer in your backyard, watch from a safe distance and enjoy nature’s show.

Conclusion

By learning about the different types of wasps that you might find in your backyard in Arkansas, you can better understand which ones are dangerous and which ones are harmless. Remember to always be cautious around paper wasps and yellow jackets, as they can be aggressive and sting if they feel threatened. If you need help removing a wasp nest from your backyard, don’t hesitate to call a professional.