There are creatures that you pick fights with but there are those that you cross the street to avoid. What do we mean by this? Well, most people would not hesitate to slap a fly out of the air or crush an ant using a piece of paper towel. But if you see a wasp buzzing around near your hamburger, you think twice before doing anything that makes it mad. The question is, should you be afraid of wasps; are they as harmless as other area pests? Here is what you need to know about wasps. Are they dangerous? And what should you be doing to keep them off your New York property?
Common Area Wasps
The term “wasp” is used to describe a range of narrow-waisted stinging pests. Here is how to identify different species of these potentially dangerous insects around your New York property.
Paper wasps are the most common species of wasps in our area and are known for building their intricate nests out of chewed-up paper. This process is similar to paper mache and provides these pests with a sturdy place to live. You can identify a paper wasp around your property by its brownish ⅝ to ¾ inch-long body and yellow markings.
Yellowjackets are widely known as one of the most aggressive species of wasps. Although it is true that these pests sting more often than other area wasps, they will not go out of their way to attack unless they are given a reason. Identify this painful pest by its ⅜ to ⅝ inch-long, black and yellow patterned body.
Although they look aggressive, bald-faced hornets are one of the more docile species of wasps in our area. You can identify this larger stinging insect by its black ½ to ⅝ inch-long body and white markings.
The Dangers Of Wasps
Wasps are a lot like trained samurai soldiers. They mean you no harm but will hurt you if they feel threatened or think their home is in danger. One thing all wasps share in common is that they all have pointy, venom-filled stingers. The pain this venom induces depends on the species of wasp you are stung by. As for threat level, a single wasp sting isn’t enough to threaten your life. That is, unless you are allergic to wasps. For the average person, it takes over a hundred stings to pose any risk of fatality. Beyond this, wasp stings are just painful with minor symptoms that last for a few days max.
Some Ways To Deter Wasps From Your Property
Wasps build their nests close to areas where they can gather food. To limit the risk of these pests settling down on your property, here are a few practical strategies to use.
- Thoroughly clean up after outdoor gatherings, making sure to not leave scraps of food or open drinks around your yard.
- Pick up fruits and berries that fall into your yard.
- Fill in holes around your property.
- Consider removing budding plants and flowers from your yard and garden.
- Eliminate aphids from trees around your property.
What To Do When You Find A Wasp Nest
There is a short period of time where it is safe to knock down a wasp nest. This is when it is smaller than a golf ball and you suspect no one is inside. When nests grow larger than this, it is best to call a professional to remove nests safely. At BHB Pest Elimination, we offer quick and effective elimination services for dangerous wasps in New York and would be happy to put our years of experience to work for you.
Reach out to us today to learn more about our comprehensive pest control services or to schedule your home and property for a detailed inspection.