As a homeowner, seeing wasps buzzing around your property can be intimidating. But before you start panicking, it’s important to know that not all wasps are created equal. In this article, we’ll break down the different types of wasps you might see in and around your home, and what to do if you find them inside.
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 one of the most common types of wasps you’ll see around your home. They are named for the paper-like material they use to build their nests, which are often found hanging from eaves or under decks. These wasps are relatively docile, but will sting if they feel threatened or if their nest is disturbed.
Yellowjackets are another common type of wasp you might encounter in your backyard. They are smaller than paper wasps, with distinctive yellow and black stripes on their bodies. Yellowjackets are known for being aggressive and will sting multiple times if they feel threatened. Their nests are often found underground or in wall voids, so you may not even realize you have a problem until you see the wasps swarming around your yard.
Hornets are larger than paper wasps and yellowjackets, with a brownish-red coloration. They build large, paper-like nests that are often located high up in trees or other tall structures. Hornets are generally not aggressive unless their nest is disturbed, but their stings can be painful and even dangerous if you are allergic.
While bees are not technically a type of wasp, they are still an important pollinator that you may encounter in your yard. Unlike wasps, bees are not typically aggressive and will only sting if provoked. If you see a swarm of bees in your yard, it’s best to leave them alone and call a professional beekeeper to safely remove them.
If you’ve seen wasps inside your home, don’t panic. The first step is to try to locate where they are coming from. Check your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks that could be allowing the wasps to enter. Once you’ve identified the entry point, seal it up to prevent more wasps from getting inside.
Next, try to locate the nest if possible. If the nest is outside, you may be able to spray it with an insecticide designed specifically for wasps. If the nest is inside your home, however, it’s best to call a professional pest control company to handle the situation. Attempting to remove the nest yourself can be dangerous and may just make the problem worse.
In conclusion, seeing wasps in and around your home can be unnerving, but it’s important to remember that not all wasps are aggressive and dangerous. By learning about the different types of wasps and taking steps to prevent them from entering your home, you can keep your family safe and enjoy your outdoor space without worry.