Everything You Need to Know About Wasps in Garland, Texas

Posted by Matthew Rathbone on March 24, 2023 · 3 mins read

Are you seeing wasps buzzing around your backyard in Garland, Texas? Don’t panic! Wasps are an essential part of our ecosystem and play a crucial role in pollination and pest control. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wasps in Garland, Texas, including the types of wasps you might encounter, their behavior, 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.

Types of Wasps in Garland, Texas

There are several types of wasps that homeowners in Garland, Texas, may encounter in their backyards. Here are the most common ones:

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are slender and have distinctive long legs that hang down when they fly. They have smooth bodies with black or brown stripes and can grow up to 1 inch long. Paper wasps build small, open nests made from wood fibers and saliva, which look like upside-down umbrellas. These nests are usually located under eaves, porch roofs, or balcony ceilings.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are easily recognizable by their black and yellow striped bodies. They are aggressive and can sting multiple times when threatened. Yellow jackets build large, enclosed nests made from papery material similar to cardboard. These nests can be found underground or in voids such as wall cavities or attics.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are solitary wasps that are less likely to sting than other wasps. They have long and slender bodies, with a narrow waist and a metallic blue or black color. Mud daubers build cylindrical, mud nests on walls, fences, or rocks. These nests contain individual cells where the female mud dauber lays her eggs and stores paralyzed spiders as food for her offspring.

Hornets

Hornets are large wasps that can grow up to 2 inches long. They have black and white markings on their bodies and build large, paper nests that can contain thousands of individuals. Hornets are territorial and will aggressively defend their nests if threatened.

Behavior of Wasps

Wasps are generally not aggressive unless they feel threatened or their nest is disturbed. When threatened, wasps will become defensive and release pheromones that signal to other wasps to attack. Avoid swatting at wasps or disturbing their nests, as this can trigger an attack.

Identifying Wasp Nests

If you see wasps in your backyard, it’s essential to locate their nest to avoid accidentally disturbing it. Look for nests under eaves, porch roofs, balconies, or in underground voids. Different wasps build different types of nests, so identifying the nest can help you determine what type of wasp you’re dealing with.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the types and behavior of wasps can help homeowners in Garland, Texas, coexist peacefully with these important insects. Remember to identify the type of wasp you’re dealing with and avoid disturbing their nests to prevent stings. If you have a wasp infestation in your home or yard, it’s best to contact a professional pest control company to safely remove the nest.