Are you seeing wasps flying around your backyard in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania? Don’t worry - it’s common to find these stinging insects in the area. Here’s what you need to know about the wasps in Pittsburgh and how to handle 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.
There are several types of wasps that you might see in Pittsburgh, including:
Yellow jackets are the most common type of wasp in the area. They are black and yellow and often nest in the ground or in cavities, such as hollow trees or walls. They can be aggressive if their nests are disturbed, so it’s important to avoid getting too close to them.
Paper wasps are brown and yellow and have long, thin bodies. They are called paper wasps because they create their nests out of a papery substance that they make by chewing wood fibers. Paper wasps are generally less aggressive than yellow jackets, but they will still sting if they feel threatened.
Hornets are the largest type of wasp in Pittsburgh. They are black and white and typically nest in trees or bushes. Hornets can be very aggressive when their nests are disturbed, so it’s important to stay away from them.
If you find a wasp nest on your property, it’s best to call a professional pest control service to remove it. Attempting to remove the nest yourself can be dangerous and may result in multiple stings.
If you encounter a single wasp flying around your yard, try to remain calm and avoid swatting at it. Move away slowly and give it space to fly away. If you do get stung, wash the affected area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
To help prevent wasps from making nests on your property, keep your garbage cans sealed tightly and clean up any spills or crumbs promptly. You may also want to consider planting plants that wasps are less attracted to, such as citronella, eucalyptus, or mint.
Don’t let wasps ruin your time outdoors in Pittsburgh. By understanding the different types of wasps in the area and how to deal with them, you can enjoy your backyard without the worry of being stung.