As homeowners, it’s not uncommon to see wasps buzzing around our backyards. For many of us, the sight of these stinging insects can cause anxiety and fear. However, understanding more about the different types of wasps and their behavior can help alleviate some of that fear.
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.
There are several different types of wasps you may encounter in your backyard. Here are some of the most common:
Yellow jackets are often mistaken for bees due to their yellow and black striped appearance. These aggressive wasps build nests in the ground and can be very territorial if disturbed.
Paper wasps have long, slender bodies and can be identified by their papery nests, which they build under eaves or other sheltered areas. They can be aggressive if provoked, but are generally less aggressive than yellow jackets.
Mud daubers are solitary wasps that build their nests out of mud. They are typically not aggressive and are beneficial to have in your yard as they prey on spiders and other insects.
If you’re one of the many homeowners who experience fear when encountering wasps, there are some steps you can take to overcome that fear:
Remember, wasps play an important role in our ecosystem as pollinators and predators of other pests. By learning more about them and taking steps to overcome our fear, we can coexist with these fascinating insects in our backyards.