The most common wasps found throughout the Midwest are paper wasps and yellow jackets. These stinging insects increase in activity during late summer and early fall. Although they both are fairly similar, they do show differences in behavior that make it easy to tell them apart. Find out more about paper wasps and yellow jackets below. If you’re looking for safe and effective wasp control, get a free quote or call us at (630) 451-8101.
Paper Wasps
Paper Wasps are usually found building wasp nests in the open, in areas like tree branches, open pipes, clothes lines, etc. These nests have exposed “combs” and a stalk in the middle for stabilization. They build these nests by chewing wood fiber with their strong mandibles and mixing it with saliva – thus the term “paper” wasp. Paper Wasps are the least aggressive compared to other commonly found stinging pests, and only attack if their nest is compromised.
Yellow Jackets
Yellow jackets are commonly mistaken for bees as they are similar in size and sting, but are in fact a type of wasp. These pests only build concealed nests, not necessarily underground, but in the siding or walls of structures. Yellow Jacket nests are built entirely of wood fiber built similarly to paper wasps – by chewing wood fiber. They also are completely enclosed except for a small entrance at the bottom. The nests contain multiple, horizontal tiers of combs.
Why You are Seeing an Increase in Activity
All species of wasps are only active during the warmer months. Because of this, when fall approaches wasps are reaching their highest numbers. One nest can hold 1000-3000 wasps by the end of the year. Thankfully, each nest eventually dies off, aside from the newly birthed queens, who seek out warm shetler during the colder months. They emerge from their overwintering spaces in spring, thus restarting the cycle for a new season.
Safe Paper Wasp and Yellow Jacket Control
Late summer is a crucial time to take care of the paper wasp and yellow jacket nests around your yard, and in cracks and crevices of your home. You don’t need to keep asking yourself how to get rid of bugs outside, when you’re backed by the ProActive Protection Guarantee. To get a free quote and to discuss the treatment plan best for you, give us a call at (630) 451-8101!