The last thing you want after a long day at work is to come home to a wasp nest built near your entryway, or worse—see the stinging insects themselves. But there’s no need to worry! Thankfully, Dewey Pest and Termite Control has the tips to help you identify the wasp you’re dealing with and how to take care of its nest properly.
The Different Types of Wasp Nests
What does a wasp nest look like? They come in all shapes and sizes, and while the sight of a wasp nest can make you feel uneasy no matter how it looks, it’s important to know the details of its appearance and the species it might come from.
Paper Wasp Nest
If you’re wondering how paper wasps got their name or why they’re also known as umbrella wasps, the answer is pretty simple. Their nest! Paper wasp nests are easily identifiable as they’re uniquely shaped like open umbrellas yet upside down, and their nests look like gray or brown paper structures.
However, the material is actually dead wood and plant stems mixed with their spit. They also have open-cell combs outside to breed and raise their young. Although paper wasps aren’t aggressive, they will be if their nest is disturbed or threatened.
Mud Wasp Nest
Like the paper wasp, mud dauber wasps get their name from the material they use to construct their nest. Depending on the type of mud wasp, the nest can be small or long, but it will always be tubular, like organ pipes. Some nests also have holes in them as wasps come and go.
These wasps typically build their nests anywhere that will keep them sheltered, such as under eaves, porch ceilings, open garages or sheds, barns, protected building walls, and attics. If you see them around your home, don’t worry. Mud wasps aren’t aggressive and are unlikely to sting.
Yellow Jacket Nest
While yellow jackets are the most common wasps to live around humans, their nests are actually pretty hard to find when it comes to yellow jackets vs. wasps of other types. They usually build their nests anywhere underground or somewhere cavernous-like, such as an eave or attic.
Like paper wasps, their nests are also made of paper material, except theirs is enclosed and made of chewed-up cellulose. And while their nest may only last a season, it can grow as big as a basketball by the end of it. Yellow jackets are aggressive insects and will sting if threatened, so it’s best to proceed cautiously if you’re near one or come upon their nest.
How To Remove a Wasp Nest Effortlessly
To effectively remove a wasp nest, follow these steps.
1. Identify the Species
If you want to remove a wasp nest, you must know what you’re dealing with. It’s good to know if the wasp is aggressive and can sting. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and thankfully, we already gave you all the information you need to know on how to identify wasp nests.
2. Wear Protective Gear
Protective gear is necessary for wasp removal, especially if you do it alone. Make sure to wear thick, long-sleeved clothing, gloves, a face shield or eyewear, boots, and pants. Basically, anything that can cover your body with little to no skin showing and that can keep your sight visible is good to use.
3. Choose the Right Time
When it comes to removing wasps from your home, choosing the right timing is crucial. But more specifically, either early morning or late evening and night is best. Those are when wasps are the most inactive as the sun is down and the day is cool. Wasps can become very aggressive when they have unwanted visitors near their nest. Before approaching the nest, make sure you have a clear and safe escape plan if you’re forced to retreat.
How To Get Rid of a Yellow Jacket Nest
Yellow jacket nests require special caution because these wasps are very aggressive and will attack in swarms if disturbed. Here are different ways to remove a yellow jacket nest.
DIY Treatment
One of the most common DIY methods for removing a yellow jacket nest is the simple dish soap and water trick. Just mix some boiling water and dishwasher soap together in a hose sprayer, and then stand back and spray the nest until it becomes soggy. The same method works if you use peppermint essential oils instead, as wasps hate the smell of mint. Using undiluted white distilled vinegar will also work.
Pest Traps
If liquid or spray treatments aren’t doing it for you, then try some hand traps or bait stations. Most of them will come with their own chemical lures to bring them in, but if not, then you could use some you have at home. A small amount of meat and sweet foods or liquids are all you need. When setting up these traps, make sure they’re somewhere close to the nest and away from where people or pets could be. It’s also best practice to check your trap every few days.
Defend Your Home With Dewey Pest and Termite Control
You shouldn’t have to take the risk if you find a wasp nest near your home. If DIYs or traps aren’t doing the job, then let the experts take care of it. Dewey Pest and Termite Control has the tools and experience to effectively remove wasp nests and prevent them from returning. Call or contact us online today for fast and professional wasp control to enjoy your home with peace of mind.
