Latin Name: Hymenoptera
Wasps look very similar to bees; however, they are more dangerous and predatory. They are also different in appearance and behavior and seem territorial in defending their nests fiercely.
There are three categories of wasps, i.e., paper wasp, hornet, and yellow jackets. There are at least 30,000 species of wasp worldwide. In North America alone, there are at least 4,000 species of wasps, but only a few of them are considered pests.
One of the most noticeable physical features of wasps is their thin and narrow waistline that connects the thorax. Unlike bees, only a few species of wasps have visible body hair. They have one of the largest colonies of about 10,000 members.
The hornets, one of the classes of wasps, are bald-faced with white markings on their thorax and head. They sometimes have orange markings and build their nests in natural cavities like within buildings and tree stumps.
Paper wasps are about 16-20 mm long with brownish body color, yellow markings, and distinctive long legs.
Yellow-jacket wasps are about 10-16 mm long. They have black antennae, short legs, and have a black and yellow abdomen. You can find them in cavities and wall voids.
Wasps are also known for their biting mouthparts and antennae of about 12 to 13 segments. They have wings, and their stinging species have a formidable sting that pierces and produces venom.
Most wasps are found all over North America, especially in cemeteries, orchards, woodlands, urban and suburban settings. They build nests, though their preference differs per species. For wasps like the paper wasp, their nests are often paper-like made from wood fibers. However, you will find yellow jacket wasps build their nests above ground, and hornets build theirs in tress and structures like the porch, decks, house walls, and attics.
Contrary to many opinions, adult wasps rarely feed on other insects and spiders but prefer to feed on sugars. They take their sugar from honeydews produced by aphids and sugar from flower nectar. Their larvae have sugary fluid, which makes them attractive to adults.
Adult wasps also paralyze insects to make them suitable for their larvae to eat. They also sometimes paralyze their prey to make them the host for their eggs. Some are used agricultural pests control, especially in South America, where the farmers depend on the parasitic ones to control the population of borers in their sugarcane farm.
Yellow-jacket wasps feed on whatever humans eat. Hence, they scavenge for food in the garbage, and the paper wasps eat wood because it also needs it to build its nest.
The moment you notice wasps in your environment, it is an indication that there is a wasp nest close to your home or property. Their nests are often made from chewed wood pulp and saliva and are usually built-in sheltered spots with easy access to the house. You will often find those nests in roof spaces, wall cavities, sheds, garages, and bird boxes.
To quickly identify them, look out for their flight path and be more vigilant during summer because they are often more during this period.
Another sign of wasp is their loud buzzing, which suggests their presence in decks, attics, and porches.
Wasps are dangerous and predatory, unlike bees, that will only attack when it feels threatened. Wasps are aggressive and territorial as they are quick to attack anyone in their territory. They attack in packs, and their venoms can be very deadly. Anyone stringed by wasps must receive immediate medical attention.
Wasps are nuisance pests. They often sting anytime they feel threatened and when anyone invades their territory. Hence, if you find them in your home, you must remove them immediately. Here are some ways you can prevent their infestation:
If you suspect these pests are in or around your home, give us a call for a Free Home Inspection!
