All You Need to Know About Wasps in Las Vegas, Nevada

Posted by Matthew Rathbone on January 28, 2023 · 4 mins read

If you’re a homeowner in Las Vegas, you’ve probably seen your fair share of wasps buzzing around your backyard. But do you know what kind of wasps they are or how to deal with them? In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about wasps in Las Vegas, from the most common species to effective ways to keep them away.

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.

Common Wasp Species in Las Vegas

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are perhaps the most notorious wasps in Las Vegas. Recognizable by their black and yellow striped bodies, these aggressive insects can deliver painful stings, especially when provoked. They typically build their nests underground, but can also be found in trees, bushes, and even inside homes.

If you spot a yellow jacket nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional pest control service to remove it safely. Trying to remove it yourself could lead to multiple stings and a potentially dangerous situation.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are another common sight in Las Vegas. These wasps have long, slender bodies and are usually brown or reddish-brown in color. Unlike yellow jackets, paper wasps typically build their nests above ground, often under eaves, in trees, or on other structures.

If you come across a paper wasp nest, use caution and keep your distance. Paper wasps can become aggressive if their nest is disturbed, so it’s best to call in a professional to remove the nest if necessary.

Mud Daubers

Mud daubers are a less common but still present species in Las Vegas. These wasps are long and slender like paper wasps, but are usually black or blue-black in color. They get their name from their habit of building nests out of mud, which look like small tubes attached to walls or other surfaces.

Mud daubers are generally not aggressive and rarely sting humans. In fact, they can even be beneficial as they prey on spiders and other insects. If you find a mud dauber nest on your property, you can simply leave it alone or gently remove it with a broom or other tool.

Bald-Faced Hornets

Bald-faced hornets are large, black-and-white wasps that are more closely related to yellow jackets than true hornets. They build large, papery nests that can contain hundreds of individuals. While they can be intimidating, bald-faced hornets are actually beneficial predators that help control other insect populations.

Like yellow jackets and paper wasps, it’s best to call in a professional to remove bald-faced hornet nests. Attempting to remove the nest yourself could result in multiple stings and a dangerous situation.

Keeping Wasps Away

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate wasps from your backyard, there are steps you can take to discourage them from setting up shop.

  • Keep food and drinks covered when eating outside
  • Seal any holes or cracks in your home’s exterior
  • Regularly remove trash and debris from your yard
  • Trim back bushes and trees to reduce nesting sites
  • Use yellow light bulbs instead of white or blue, which can attract insects

By following these tips and being aware of the common wasp species in Las Vegas, you can enjoy your backyard without worrying about getting stung. And remember, if you do come across a wasp nest, always err on the side of caution and call in a professional for removal.