Wasp Identification

What are wasps?

The wasp is a stinging insect and, like other stinging insects, has a venom-filled stinger extending from the end of its abdomen. Wasps play several essential roles in the ecosystem as both pollinators and predators. Like bees, wasps help pollinate many flowers, trees, and plants. They also feed on crop-damaging insects helping to control their populations and protecting our food sources. Wasps can be social, meaning they live together in large groups or solitary. In the case of solitary wasps, their females live alone and create individual nests. 

Are wasps dangerous?

When wasps are flying around your yard, especially in large numbers, their presence can make it so you can't thoroughly enjoy your outdoor space. How often have you tried to go outside, were annoyed or scared by swarming wasps, and then headed back indoors?
 
The reason we are so wary around wasps is warranted. Wasp stings are painful, and a single wasp can sting multiple times. The venom a wasp injects with each sting is powerful enough to trigger breathing problems and other symptoms in those allergic. 

Why do I have a wasp problem? 

Wasps tend to be most attracted to foods high in sugar and proteins, a big reason our properties seem to attract these stinging pests. Your property's outdoor eating areas, gardens, fruit trees, trash cans, and grill areas provide wasps access to sugary drinks, fruits, and meats. Our yards also provide wasps with reliable access to water and many sheltered areas to build their nests either in the ground, on the ground, or up off the ground. 

Where will I find wasps?

Wasps tend to be most problematic and most aggressive in the late summer and fall when they are frantic trying to gather enough food to ensure their queens survive the winter and perpetuate the species. 
 
Wasps are most dangerous to people when they decide to nest in high-traffic areas of our yards. The soil next to sidewalks or steps, under decks, in the corners of doorways or windows, or spaces in attics or wall voids tend to be the most problematic nesting spots.

How do I get rid of wasps?

Trying to eliminate wasps on your own is a recipe for disaster. The safest way to eliminate wasps from your property is to reach out to the local pest control experts at Empire Pest Defense. We will safely remove these unwanted pests from your property through detailed inspections, effective treatments, and ongoing services. At Empire Pest Defense, all our technicians are licensed, insured, and dedicated to helping West Palm Beach home and business owners sustain pest-free properties. Contact us today to learn more about our stinging insect control services!

How can I prevent wasps in the future?

Reduce wasps on your Florida property with the help of the professionals at Empire Pest Defense and our effective pest control solutions. You can also try some of these practical prevention tips:

• Prune back trees, shrubs, and bushes to reduce the dense vegetation on your property where wasps like to nest.

• Take away food sources that attract wasps; keep lids on trash cans, pick up fallen fruits from gardens, and keep outdoor eating areas free of leftover food.

• Fill in ground holes that can collect water or be used by ground wasps as a nesting site.

  Limit flowering vegetation planted on your property.

• Seal openings in your home's exterior that could allow wasps to move into your home to nest.

Learn more about controlling wasps through our residential or commercial pest control services by reaching out now.