Are you tired of feeling intimidated by the wasps buzzing around your backyard? Don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll help you identify common wasps found in Pennsylvania and provide tips for safely dealing with them.
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 are probably the most commonly seen wasp in Pennsylvania. These insects are about an inch long and have slender bodies with narrow waists. They are usually black or brown with yellow markings. You may see paper wasps building their nests under eaves or in other sheltered areas.
If you spot a paper wasp nest on your property, it’s important to proceed with caution. These wasps can become aggressive if they feel threatened. If possible, try to avoid disturbing their nest. If you must remove it, do so at night when the wasps are less active. Wear protective clothing and use a pesticide labeled for wasp control to spray the nest from a safe distance.
Yellow jackets are another common wasp found in Pennsylvania. These insects are smaller than paper wasps and have bright yellow and black stripes on their bodies. They usually build their nests underground, although they can also be found in wall voids or other protected areas.
If you see yellow jackets flying in and out of a hole in the ground, it’s likely that there is a nest nearby. As with paper wasps, it’s best to leave yellow jacket nests alone if possible. If you need to get rid of the nest, wait until after dark when the wasps are less active. Use a pesticide labeled for yellow jacket control and wear protective clothing to avoid getting stung.
Bald-faced hornets are a type of wasp that is larger than both paper wasps and yellow jackets. They have black bodies with white markings and build large, round nests that look like papier-mâché balls. These nests can be found hanging from trees or attached to buildings.
If you find a bald-faced hornet nest on your property, it’s important to take action quickly. These wasps can become very aggressive if they feel threatened, and their stings can be extremely painful. To remove a bald-faced hornet nest, wait until after dark when the wasps are less active. Wear protective clothing and use a pesticide labeled for hornet control to spray the nest from a safe distance.
With this guide, you should be able to identify common wasps found in Pennsylvania and know how to deal with them safely. Remember to always approach wasp nests with caution and to wear protective clothing when necessary. By following these tips, you can enjoy your backyard without fear of these flying insects.