All About Wasps in Milwaukee, Wisconsin: What You Need to Know

Posted by Matthew Rathbone on January 31, 2023 · 3 mins read

If you’re a homeowner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, chances are you’ve come across some wasps buzzing around your backyard. But did you know that not all wasps are created equal? In fact, there are several different types of wasps that you might encounter in your area. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these insects and help you learn 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.

Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are perhaps the most common type of wasp in Milwaukee. These insects are easily identifiable by their black and yellow striped bodies. They are about half an inch long and have a narrow waist. You’ll often see yellow jackets flying around garbage cans or other areas where food is present. They can be aggressive when provoked, so it’s best to keep your distance.

Bald Faced Hornets

Bald faced hornets are larger than yellow jackets, measuring about three-quarters of an inch long. They are black with white markings on their faces and abdomens. Unlike yellow jackets, bald faced hornets build large paper nests that can be as big as a basketball. If you see a nest in your yard, it’s best to call a professional pest control company to remove it.

Paper Wasps

Paper wasps are another type of wasp that you may encounter in Milwaukee. They are brown with yellow markings and measure about an inch long. Paper wasps build small, open-faced nests that resemble upside-down umbrellas. They are not usually aggressive unless their nest is disturbed.

Other Types of Wasps

In addition to yellow jackets, bald faced hornets, and paper wasps, there are several other types of wasps that you might encounter in your backyard. These include cicada killers, mud daubers, and sand wasps. While these wasps can be intimidating due to their size, they are generally not aggressive towards humans.

Keeping Wasps Away

While wasps are an important part of the ecosystem, they can be a nuisance when they build nests near your home. To keep wasps away, make sure to keep your garbage cans tightly sealed and remove any sources of standing water from your yard. If you do encounter a nest, it’s best to call a professional pest control company to handle the removal.

By learning about the different types of wasps in Milwaukee, you can better understand these insects and how to coexist with them peacefully. Remember to always stay safe and avoid disturbing any nests you may come across.