Stinging insects are no doubt some of the most annoying pests we have to deal with in Idaho. In the warmer months they come out in droves, ruining our backyard BBQs or picnics. Not only that, but they often make our homes their homes, which can lead to problems and potential dangers. There are many stinging insects that we see in Idaho. Bees, hornets, yellow jackets and wasps are often confused, although each is a distinct and separate insect. One of the most common stinging insect species we see around our homes in Idaho are paper wasps. If you want to keep your home free from these, read long to see what you need to know about paper wasps in Idaho!
How To Identify a Paper Wasp: Like many common stinging insects, paper wasps have a yellow and black coloring that falls into stripes along their bodies. However, their bodies are more slender and narrow near the ‘waist’ than yellow jackets. Even so, identification in this regard can be difficult to the untrained eye. The best way to identify a paper wasp is by their nest. A paper wasp’s nest is above ground, shaped like an umbrella, and has a honeycomb-like structure.
Wasp Attractants: Paper wasps feed on both other insects and nectar from plants. The more food options you have in your yard, the more wasps there will be. Having an already established pest control program can help greatly to reduce the amount of bugs on your property, which in turn will help keep the wasps away. Any water sources will attract wasps as well. Leaky spigots or hoses, as well as pooled rainwater, will allow wasps to thrive.
Are Paper Wasps Dangerous? Here’s the good news- compared to some other stinging insect species, paper wasps are not particularly aggressive and prone to stinging. They are capable of stinging, and more than once. But, they will usually only sting if feeling particularly threatened or trapped. Although to most people the stings are not dangerous, they are painful.
What To Do: Paper wasps are notorious for returning to a nesting place year after year. Once they have found a good place to stay, they can be hard to completely eradicate. Store bought kill sprays can take care of existing wasps, but that is not a long-term solution. In contrast, a professional pest control service can not only take care of the current population, but help keep them away for good.
Get Lost Pest Control can help you battle paper wasps in Idaho. Not only will we inspect your home for existing nests, but we can also help you identify possible attractants that, when removed, can help keep the wasps away. Don’t leave this problem to chance- contact the experts at Get Lost Pest Control today to help with your paper wasps in Idaho!