What do yellow jackets look like?
Yellow jackets (Vespula spp.) are social wasps that are easily identified by their bright yellow and black striped bodies. Approximately ½-inch to ¾-inch in length, these wasps have narrow waists and pointed abdomens. They do not have round fuzzy bodies like bees but rather have a smooth shiny appearance.
Are yellow jackets dangerous?
As is the case with other types of stinging insects, yellow jackets can be dangerous to people. Yellow jacket stings usually only occur if they are threatened or their nest is disturbed but they can sting multiple times. Their stings are usually painful but can also cause an allergic reaction in some people, which may result in swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing. In rare cases, a yellow jacket sting can be fatal.
How can I tell if I have a yellow jacket problem?
Yellow jackets typically build their nests in the ground, tree cavities, and voids of homes and businesses. It’s not uncommon to discover a yellow jacket nest in the ground when mowing or playing in the yard.
Although yellow jackets become active in the spring, they are most active during the late summer and early fall when their colony is at its peak. This is about the same time that their natural food sources deplete and they become more of a pest at outdoor gatherings where there’s food.
What attracts yellow jackets?
Yellow jackets are attracted to sweets and protein-rich foods. They are also attracted to sugary drinks, such as soda, juice, and alcohol. Garbage and compost piles can also attract yellow jackets, as they are looking for sources of protein and sugar.
How do I get rid of yellow jackets?
If you’ve found a yellow jacket nest on your property or in your home, reach out to a pest control company that specializes in removing wasp nests. At Getem Services, we are a locally owned and family-operated pest control company that has been helping our neighbors and community take care of yellow jackets and other pest problems since 1922; you can rely on us for an effective solution! Reach out today for a free pest control quote.
How can I prevent a yellow jacket infestation?
To avoid encounters with yellow jackets and to keep them out of your home, our team recommends the following tips:
- Close doors and windows when not in use unless they have screens
- Store trash in sealed containers
- Keep drinks and food covered outside and take inside as soon as you’re done
- Clean up spills and crumbs immediately, even if you’re on the deck or patio
- Cover compost piles
- Seal potential entry points
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